Visual Systems Inc. -- Deeper than Transparent

To help out with this boom in business, so far this year VSI has purchased a new multi-color Heidelberg sheetfed press; a Creo platesetter; a Polar cutter; a multi-station collator; and a new bindery line. Heidelberg's Prinergy workflow was also implemented.

On the drawing board, Hengsbach says, is a new digital press, a new perfect binder, as well as additional laminating, foil stamping and embossing equipment.

"VSI constantly looks at improving production through new equipment, technology and overall process improvement," he maintains.

Keeping up on the latest industry trends and equipment has payed off mightily for VSI. The company has been honored with numerous industry awards, including Gold Ink Awards (Printing Impressions/PrintMedia), Premier Print Awards (Printing Industries of America) and Graphic Excellence Awards (Printing Industries of Wisconsin).

It has also been named a Best Workplace in America four years in a row by the Printing Industries of America and recognized as "the best best company to work for in Southeastern Wisconsin" by Milwaukee Magazine and The Management Resource Association.

"It is an honor to be recognized on both a local and national level for the culture at Visual Systems," says Brenda Aulik, human resources manager. "We take great pride in developing and training each of our associates, and go the extra mile to recruit and retain the best of the best."

No Stopping Now

The company has no plans to stop and admire what it has already accomplished, however. In the next few years, VSI plans to continue to grow rapidly due to three points:

* Providing new products and offering creativity.

* Strong market growth.

* A stable history and highly competent associates.

"The challenge will be to keep the growth orderly and the costs reasonable," Hengsbach concludes. "BaseOne has every chance to revolutionize the way book covers are produced, and VSI will be putting every resource into making a lasting improvement in book manufacturing."