Punchcard is Canada’s leading digital transformation studio, specializing in customized digital products and tailored software solutions. We empower businesses to innovate and scale through bespoke digital transformation strategies that align with their unique goals and challenges, enhancing experiences for their team, clients, and partners.
Tell us about yourself?
I grew up in a household where learning and play were central, thanks to having an educator as a parent. My love for technology began early, with our first computer—an Apple Macintosh—which ignited my passion for building things and sparked a deep appreciation for great design.
As an entrepreneur, I combine my love of building with a love of learning and community. That’s reflected not only in the businesses I’ve helped build, like Punchcard Systems and Standard Field Systems, but also in the time I spend volunteering. For me, it’s all about creating something meaningful—whether that’s transforming how organizations use technology or contributing to the communities I care about.
I got into this line of work because I love turning ideas into reality and using technology to create a meaningful impact. Every project is an opportunity to learn, improve, and leave things better than they were yesterday.
If you could go back in time a year or two, what piece of advice would you give yourself?
If I could go back, I’d remind myself to embrace patience and the power of small, consistent progress. As an entrepreneur, it’s easy to get caught up in wanting immediate results, but the most meaningful change comes from staying focused on long-term goals.
I’d also tell myself to double down on communicating purpose—not just with my team but also with clients. Simon Sinek’s idea, “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it,” has never been more relevant. By leading with the “why” in every project and decision, I’ve seen how it strengthens trust and drives better outcomes.
What problem does your business solve?
The problem we solve is that businesses today have to adapt really quickly to the changing environment. A big part of that adaptation is through technology, and most organizations don’t have all the tools to be able to move quickly. That’s where we come in – we help our clients execute digital projects quickly with people, process, and technology.
What is the inspiration behind your business?
My partner, Estyn Edwards, and I first built a product company together, launching in 2012. During that experience, we really began to understand the challenges of activating teams to build digital products and platforms. It became clear how difficult it is to bring the right people together to tackle complex technology opportunities.
That insight became the foundation for Punchcard Systems. We wanted to create a company that helps organizations overcome these challenges—whether it’s modernizing workflows, automating processes, or unlocking the power of their data. We focus on solving critical problems for industries like construction, energy, and healthcare by building the digital platforms they need to thrive.
What is your magic sauce?
Our magic sauce is the collaborative approach we take with all of our clients and within our team.
For any professional services firm, juggling several projects with different timelines can often lead to misalignment of objectives and miscommunication. At Punchcard, our team is purpose-built to work in “sprints,” guided by open communication and a culture of innovation. We pride ourselves on having a collective sense of purpose to work hand in hand with our clients as partners, not just vendors.
Most importantly, we have the shared understanding that our approach goes beyond traditional technology consultancy by focusing on outcomes rather than outputs, enabling businesses to drive meaningful change across their organization.
What is the plan for the next 5 years? What do you want to achieve?
At Punchcard Systems, our 2030 vision is focused on “building software to impact the lives of 100 million people.” Every project we take on with our clients contributes to this mission.
Over the next five years, we’re building toward this vision with several key initiatives. First, we’re launching Punchcard Academy, an internal leadership development institute designed to ensure we’re growing an exceptional team. Second, we’re expanding our portfolio of products and supporting the launch of 10 new startups over the next decade.
We’ve already started on this path. Last year, we launched Standard Field Systems, a platform for digital evidence management in law enforcement that’s already making an impact. Our goal is to maximize the reach and impact of our work, creating meaningful change
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced so far?
Personally, the biggest challenge I’ve faced is finding balance—growing and scaling a business, continuing to invest in my community, and starting a family all at the same time. Each of these is incredibly rewarding, but they all demand focus and energy in different ways.
For me, it’s been about learning how to prioritize and being intentional about where I invest my time. Some days, that means leaning into the demands of running a business, and other days, it means stepping back to focus on my family or giving back to the community. It’s not easy, but it’s helped me stay grounded and focused on what truly matters.
How can people get involved?
You can learn more about how your business can scale with digital transformation at our website, www.punchcard.io
I also post regularly about digital transformation, leadership, and growth on my LinkedIn page: www.linkedin.com/in/samjenkins/