Chicago-based System Development•Integration applies an exceptionally disciplined approach to its service delivery in the systems integration business. This approach is manifested in the firm’s customer pledge, best practices, and employee development programs – as well as numerous other aspects that led SDM to choose it as a 2007 Systems Integrator of the Year honoree.

The company was established as the information systems division of the engineering firm, Environmental Systems Design Inc. Over the following years, this division successfully provided technology services to local governments, utility customers and businesses in the real estate, health care, banking, and financial industries.

In 1996, the information services division emerged from the parent company as System Development•Integration Inc. (SD•I). Its mission focused exclusively on providing superior information technology solutions and advisory services.

“Our engineering discipline provides SD•I with a holistic framework for managing technology projects — from concept to design, implementation, operation and maintenance,” explains David A. Gupta, SD•I’s president and CEO.

In addition to Gupta, other members of the management team include Brian Diver, executive vice president, and Sharee Wolff, chief financial officer. A significant number of employees hold important certifications, including ISACA CISA (Certificate information system auditor), Project Management (PMP), Novell, Microsoft (MCSE), Citrix, UNIX, Linux, Cisco, Oracle, Designer(JDesigner) and Developer(JDeveloper) Certified, Application Developer (.Net etc.), and Network (CCMP, CCMP etc.).

The company’s primary market is state and local government, to which SD•I delivers integrated technology systems, infrastructure and ongoing operational support for capital asset intensive organizations that are directly impacted by Homeland Security initiatives. Its secondary customer target is airports, port authorities, transit systems, utilities and property management firms.

“SD•I’s project management methodology includes engineering best practices such as process-driven approaches, systematic situational analysis, and on-time, on-spec and on-budget deliverables,” Gupta declares.

Because these high-quality processes are embedded in the fabric of SD•I’s operation, the firm is able to make the following, resolute statement to its clients:

“We pledge our presence — from regularly scheduled meetings to off-hour emergencies. We pledge our quick response — whether in a support capacity, providing quotes, or in returning a phone call. We pledge our enthusiasm — for our work and in the success of your organization. We pledge to be willing to work with you, our client, to get through contract negotiations and procurement regulations, or project obstacles. And we pledge our ongoing vigilance of industry trends to best guide your organization into the future.”

Sidebar: At a Glance

System Development•Integration Inc., Chicago

Employees: 104 full-time; 14 part-time

Revenue: $32.5 million (estimated) in 2007, a 63 percent increase over 2006

Market focus: State and local government