Building Tools That Actually Work
We're a boutique software studio focused on creating meaningful solutions for people who need technology that just works.
Our Mission
"Technology should make life easier, not more complicated. We build tools that solve real problems for real people—whether you're a veteran navigating complex systems, a small business drowning in paperwork, or a developer who needs reliable automation."
Why We Started MonkeyBarrels
After years of working in enterprise environments, we saw too many tools built for processes instead of people. Complex interfaces, confusing workflows, and solutions that created more problems than they solved.
We started MonkeyBarrels to do things differently. Every product we build starts with a real person facing a real problem. We focus on clarity, speed, and reliability over fancy features and complex integrations.
Our name comes from the idea that sometimes you need to get creative and resourceful to solve problems—like monkeys swinging from barrel to barrel to reach their destination.
Our Values
- → Put users first, always
- → Build for speed and reliability
- → Keep things simple and clear
- → Solve problems that matter
- → Be transparent and honest
Meet the Founder
Jim Livingston
Founder & CEO
Building tools that solve real problems for real people.
The Story Behind MonkeyBarrels
Jim started MonkeyBarrels after seeing firsthand how broken many software solutions were for the people who actually needed to use them. Whether it was veterans struggling with VA paperwork or small businesses drowning in complex systems, the tools weren't working.
"I watched my veteran friends spend hours trying to understand a single decision letter from the VA. I saw small business owners paying thousands for software that made their lives harder, not easier. Something had to change."
With a background in enterprise software development and a passion for solving real-world problems, Jim founded MonkeyBarrels to build tools that actually help people get things done.
Today, MonkeyBarrels products serve thousands of users who need reliable, fast, and simple solutions to complex problems.
Jim's Background
- • 10 years in the Submarine Navy as a Radioman
- • 10+ years building enterprise software solutions
- • Experience with data pipelines, automation, and user experience design
- • Passionate about veteran affairs and small business challenges
- • Focused on practical solutions over theoretical perfection
How We Build Products
Start with People
Every product begins with real users facing real problems. We talk to veterans, small business owners, and developers to understand what actually matters.
Build Fast, Test Often
We create working prototypes quickly and get them in front of users. Real feedback beats perfect planning every time.
Ship When Ready
We launch when the tool solves the core problem well, not when it has every possible feature. Simple and reliable beats complex and buggy.
Want to Work Together?
Whether you're facing a problem our tools can solve or you have an idea for something new, we'd love to hear from you.