A common question we get: “Where did the name Smart Dolphins come from?” It is quite a story, told by the company founder Dave Monahan…
So it was the winter of the year 2000 and our family decided to take a cruise on the west coast of Mexico. Unfortunately, an incredibly powerful storm struck and the cruise ship was thrashed about and at one point we struck ground. We started sinking fast and luckily my family and I were able to escape before the whole ship fell to the ocean floor. We were still being tossed about in the angry open ocean when all of a sudden a pod of Dolphins came out of nowhere and towed us to safety. I vowed then and there that I would devote my life to a computer company and name the company Smart Dolphins.
Okay, so I’m tired of telling the same old boring story. Although the name suggests an interesting story, the truth is it is a result of a simple brainstorming session. I wanted an ambiguous, fun and memorable name that we could build a meaning for over time. I didn’t want to be the stereotypical, intimidating technology company. So, there was really Pod of Dolphins that saved my life, but a different Pod of Dolphins (our team) has made my life a whole lot better!
Our tagline, ‘Technology with Porpoise’ has also been a popular topic for discussion. This branding genius (too strong?) came to me out of nowhere while pushing my oldest son down the street in a stroller (many years ago). While I’ll admit better humour exists, I found myself caught giggling beyond what was appropriate at the time. I’m sure the people at the bus stop nearby were wondering if I had lost my mind. Perhaps I had.
