West Living Case Studies

The business provides a full range of design consultancy services for print and the web. JDK Design's clients include SMEs, multi-nationals and the public sector.

Jeff's main reasons for moving and starting his new business venture were the need for more space to think, less noise, less traffic, clean air, fantastic beaches, a slower pace, family and new adventures!

Speaking about the success of the business Jeff says “A big advantage to being based in the West is that our advertising costs are kept to a minimum because of the amazing word-of-mouth, and the referral factor - clients recommend us to others which is great”. On the personal advantages, Jeff adds “I live only 10 minutes drive from the office and the rural location is not a hindrance with the advent of 21st Century communications. I absolutely love working in Tubbercurry. It's a small town with a very big heart and a unique community that really looks out for you."

“My experience of doing business in the West has been very rewarding, with our clients having a fairly relaxed and pleasant attitude - hopefully it's because they trust that we can deliver! Over the last number of years though, I have noticed an increase in expectations of quality and shorter lead times, which is due to increased competition across all sectors of industry and also the internet revolution.  In any case, I find that business relationships flow nicely - and I can only put that down to the fact that I am very happy in my work here!”

JDK Design finds that in-house and on-the-job training are best for up-skilling employees. “With limited options for high level education in graphic design in County Sligo, I’ve had some difficulty in the past recruiting new graduates and experienced employees from the local market.  However, I have been able to recruit from slightly farther afield and have provided in-house training which has worked really well - it's the only way to learn really”, he explains.

“I have also noticed that the West is now attracting a number of experienced designers who have 'cut-their-teeth' in bigger Dublin agencies and they are now providing us with a bit of competition!  I actually see this as a positive development for the future of design in the region, because it demonstrates that the economy in the West has been growing, and that design services are integral to how companies and organisations are differentiating themselves from their competitors”, he adds.

Jeff's business is going well and he hopes to employ additional staff over the next 2 years.

Speaking about the transport infrastructure, Jeff says “Ireland West Airport at Knock is just a 20 minute drive along uncongested roads, and the airport, with its services to the UK, was a factor in our choice of location.  It’s very convenient for going back and forth to see family and friends and for them to visit us here. We've actually provided them with a holiday destination."

Jeff talks positively about the changes to his family’s life since moving to the West, "Working so close to home has allowed me to spend more time with my young family and also return to my original passion for painting".

Jeff feels that leisure and social amenities in the local area are not as developed as in city locations, but the Kays enjoy the local country walking tracks, beautiful beaches and a large back garden. Jeff also takes part in local sporting and leisure activities, including badminton, tennis, hillwalking, yoga and tai chi. Restaurants and nightlife are only 20 minutes away.

In summing up his feeling about the move Jeff says, “We are now part of the community in the West; there is a lot of warmth and generosity here. For those wishing to get stuck in and add to the community they are in, they will have a positive experience.

Life has never been busier for us, but at the end of the day, the beautiful scenery, fresh air and peaceful home calms the mind, adding to our life and job satisfaction.  Our children couldn’t be brought up in a nicer area and we have never looked back!”

Click below to listen to an interview from May 2010 of Jeff Kay and Joanne Grehan of LookWest.ie discussing the success of LookWest.ie with Midwest Radio's Tommy Marren.  Joanne also discusses the importance of winning an Irish Internet Association e-Government Award for the LookWest.ie website.