About

left brain technologists – right brain creatives

We are a team of highly talented problem solvers, strategists, communication experts, designers and developers. We have big ideas that make a difference for our clients. High Monkey is a place where everyone is challenged to use both sides of their brain.

KEEPING A WEATHER EYE

In nautical terms, we keep a constant watch the horizon for technology trends. More than just staying alert to what is coming we plan and adapt. Our Search Strategy and Modular Build services are two examples.

NOT MINNESOTA NICE

We are not the passive-aggressive people associate with ‘Minnesota Nice’. We say what we mean as diplomatically as we can . . . but we will always let our clients know when they are on the verge of a wrong turn.

A SCORE OF YEARS

20-some years in business is a long time. We have survived several economic downturns and thrived. We have re-invented what we do and the services we offer our clients. Our maturity helps our clients succeed.

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

We often get asked about our name. In 2006, co-founders Virgil Carroll and Joel Baglien were not liking the company’s name at the time (it was forgettable).  Joel suggested “High Monkey” and Virgil said it was a stupid name.  Joel said he had been thinking about it for a while because of a saying he learned as a kid in Panama – “The higher the monkey climbs the tree, the more you see his ass.”  Joel and Virgil brainstormed some other names and then they called several current clients and friends to ask for their opinions of each name.  A couple weeks later they called the same people as follow up.  Everyone remembered High Monkey or “something Monkey”. We wanted memorability, we got it.  We’ve worked very hard to make sure our name is taken seriously; we have that too.