OST: Service with a smile

Dan Behm, president of Grand Rapids-based, custom software developer OST (Open System Technologies), acknowledges that their employees work under high stress. "I.T. implementations are inherently stressful," he says. However, he is quick to point out they also like to have fun.

To share the OST philosophy that "employees come first," Behm wanted to create a corporate video that would tell their story. To do so, he turned to 1041East, a local production company and gave them one parameter: "Don't be like other I.T. company corporate videos." In other words, don't be boring.

The end result is an offbeat video featuring OST employees acting totally different than many corporate and I.T. stereotypes.  

Behm indicates it's been a hit. They have used it both on sales calls and as part of the employee interview process, as it shows their company strengths, as well as a workplace with a sense of humor.

OST is now in its 15th year and Behm indicates their focus is on having a corporate culture where employees and their families are the number one priority.

"If we hire the right people, they take of the customers," he says.

Behm indicates their are many new initiatives underway at OST and they are looking to add up to 30 employees this year.

Source: Dan Behm, OST
Writer: John Rumery, Innovation and Jobs Editor

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