Ability Software Ltd. was founded in 1999 by three software consultants with insurance industry backgrounds, Ronan Minogue, Darren McBride & Bart O’Connor. Today Ability Software employs over ten developers as a technology consultancy and software development company.

Many thanks to Ronan for taking a turn in April’s Hot Seat!

What led you to starting your business? We were working for a company that was bought over. We did not wish to take up the roles offered in the new entity. We had a number of ideas on developing a business so we took a chance.

How did you raise the start-up funds you needed? Small private investment by one of the founding directors.

What was the most significant lesson you learned in starting your business? Trust your thinking – and learn from your mistakes.

What have been the biggest challenges in your business to date? Operational costs are rising faster than revenues, causing significant pressure

What has been the proudest moment in your business so far? There have been a number of “small victories” each of which have been a source of pride. We like to achieve small victories move forward from there.

What was the best piece of business advice you ever got? Do not be afraid to make mistakes otherwise you will never start anything.

Is there one entrepreneur you admire the most? You can learn skills from people all day every day and from all walks of life – not specifically entrepreneurs.

Can you recommend a good time management technique for other entrepreneurs out there? At the start of the day list the goals & tasks you wish to achieve on that day. Avoid distractions that will definitely arise.

What magazine do you never miss each month? I review news in a variety of forms rather than follow one particular magazine.

What is your favourite ad? I like the ads for “Chill Insurance”

What advice would you give aspiring entrepreneurs thinking of starting a business? Trust your thinking but be open to advice.

What do you like to do when you’re not running your business? Manage a Gaelic Football Team & Train in Taekwondo

Have you found the self-employed formula for a work/life balance? No, this formula is a constant “work in progress”

What is your favourite film? The Shawshank Redemption

What’s your website?

abilitysoftware.ie

How has Wicklow CEB helped you and/or your business?

With business advisory sessions

If you could start up all over again, would you do anything differently?

Yes, too many things to list!  The most important lessons are do not be afraid to make mistakes but learn from your mistakes.

Ability Software provides end-to-end solutions to business requirements for a range of customers in different industries, incorporating a combination of best-of-breed technology and in-depth business knowledge. Their client-base has dedicated customers across Ireland, Great Britain and Spain, in such industries as Insurance, Public Sector, Retail, Education, Travel and Finance. Clients include Zurich Insurance, Chaucer Insurance, Enterprise Ireland, Skillnets, TeeTimes.ie and the National Roads Authority, amongst others