George H. Dean Co. Printing -- Financial And Beyond

While new equipment is important, a personal touch is also a major factor. "Today's tough economic climate has put added pressure on our customers to work with limited personnel," adds Vice President Bruce Michaud. "Customers rely on our Project Managers to be an extension of their staff, understanding procedures and always putting their needs first. It's adding value to the relationship that has been the key to our success."

This dedication to detail, new technology and customer service has allowed George H. Dean to remain a leader in the Boston printing community. "Many larger, national competitors have expressed interest in purchasing us over the years, but our desire is to stay independent," Ken Michaud reveals. "Our flexibility and ability to shift gears on a dime make us different. We can make decisions immediately that benefit our customers without waiting for the corporate office's approval. If we think it's the right thing to do, we get it done.

"We have created a viable new business model—a formidable blend of traditional values and services enhanced by the contemporary and future benefits offered by a totally integrated communications services company."

George H. Dean has added heavily to its bindery capacity over the past five years, and now the addition of in-house mailing and fulfillment gives them total control of the production process, according to Michaud. By integrating all services within one facility, customers can make one call to schedule all aspects of a project.

"In order to be successful it is necessary to blend core values, performance standards, traditional methods with state-of-the-art equipment, diversification of services and an accurate assessment of customer needs," he states. "We've evolved from a printing company into a solutions provider by adding a number of comprehensive services to meet customer needs."