In just one month, Jared Kenealy has jumped straight into the fast-paced world of tech and software development as the new VP of Business Development at Prodjex. From day one, he’s gotten a behind-the-scenes look at real-world challenges we tackle for our clients and seeing firsthand how our team continues to push the envelope in our industry.
We sat down with Jared to get his take on what he’s learned so far and to use his fresh perspective to refine how we do business at Prodjex.
Here’s what he had to say.
What’s one thing that has surprised you about the tech industry?
It’s been more people-centered and relational than I expected. I love talking and working with people and feared it would be less of that. It’s been more relational than I initially thought it would be.
If you had to explain Prodjex to a 5-year-old, how would you describe what the company does?
Prodjex helps people make a big idea real. Many of Prodjex’s opportunities start with “Wouldn’t it be cool if” or “Why can’t it work like this?” and then we run with it.
What initially attracted you to a software development company, and how has your experience matched your expectations?
I wanted to sell services, specifically digital/development services, because I knew it would be a Swiss Army Knife type of sale. I geek out on that stuff-lots of ways to solve people’s problems. I wanted to do it relationally and thoughtfully, and I had seen Prodjex demonstrate that to me and others I know.
So far, it has been exactly what I had hoped. I’m over my head with tech speak, but the core values of helping others solve important problems and making tech approachable are evident everywhere.
Based on your experience, what is one thing that sets Prodjex apart from other companies in the industry?
The willingness to not just answer your question or solve your immediate ask. They dig deeper to get ahead of hang-ups, questions and other ideas. It would be more profitable to just do what a client asks, even if it makes the next step harder or more expensive. Instead, we prefer to do more on the front end to make sure we know where we are going before we start; it avoids scope creep and frustration.
Can you describe the company culture at Prodjex in three words?
Relational, thoughtful, creative.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about how Prodjex approaches software and website development?
There are more ways to solve a simple ask than I can wrap my brain around. Choosing a pathway to your solution depends on the bigger picture, road map, and next product. Almost every project is just ONE iteration of a bigger project, and they acknowledge that every step of the way.
What’s been your most rewarding experience so far?
Watching someone share an idea/dream with the Prodjex team and then helping them make it real AND improving it with creativity, content knowledge, and expertise.
In your opinion, what makes a software development project successful?
Thoughtful front-end discussions and design choices allow for clear communication, faster builds, and more complete final products.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to get into tech?
Don’t let your lack of content knowledge or vocabulary get in the way. Be willing to get in over your head and learn on the fly. You will always learn more, faster by just DOING it.
What would you say to someone considering hiring Prodjex for a project?
Don’t be afraid to share what you don’t know or have yet to figure out about what you’re asking. We will reciprocate and won’t waste time guessing what the other one knows/doesn’t know.
Have a big idea you’re ready to make a reality? Send us a message. Connecting over (good) coffee and impossible challenges is what we do best.
