DSM

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the owner and founder of a Business Strategy/Marketing firm.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire DSM?

I worked with DSM on behalf of my largest client, a niche travel company. Together, we planned an aggressive, highly-targeted, hyper-local campaign targeting a niche travel audience.

What were your goals for this project?

The goals of the projected were to integrate with the community, leverage the long-standing heritage of the company in the region and drive overall awareness while activating our key demographic.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

DSM has a stellar reputation and I always hoped for the chance to work with the company, especially their principal, Darren Magarro. When the opportunity came up, he was my first call. He exceeded his reputation and my expectations.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

Darren and his team provided strategic counsel and presented a thoroughly vetted, multi-level campaign they developed specifically for our needs. Many agencies pull a cookie-cutter plan off the shelf and just change the logos. DSM is the opposite. They dig in to truly understand the client and create a custom plan.

What was the team composition?

I've worked closely with the principal Darren Magarro and Christine Devereaux, SVP of Account Services.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Due to covid-19, we were not able to execute our plans. DSM provided counsel and support throughout this time, going above and beyond.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The workflow was excellent. Darren leads through clear communication and cultivating relationships. It is clear this is a pillar on which the company is built.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

I connected with DSM during what would become one of the most difficult economies for small business. Not only was my business and my client's business decimated, the coronavirus clearly had a personal and professional impact on DSM. In spite of this, the DSM team never wavered, kept the ideas flowing while showing incredible support and compassion.

Are there any areas for improvement?

There are always areas for improvement, but nothing that I've found to date.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the CEO of GAIN Communications. We are a 35 year provider of Telecommunications Consulting Services while providing telecom solutions to clients from Coast to Coast. All of our clients are referred to us by other long term clients.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire DSM?

Marketing to existing client base as well as assisting other GAIN clients with their marketing needs.

What were your goals for this project?

To cross-sell all of our specialized services our client base and to introduce to notch other service provider who bring a truly value added benefit to our national client base. Due to the trust we have built with our clients over the years we have become a source of recommendations when there is a need.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

DSM was selected due to their impeccable reputation in the industry and their honest approach to satisfying complex challenges. Their team demonstrates professionalism and product knowledge throughout the process.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

Cross-selling to our large list of clients is a challenge. Since all of our clients have come to us with referrals from other clients DSM is able to leverage their talents in reaching the target audience so that GAIN Communications becomes a single source for many of their needs

What was the team composition?

All levels of expertise get involved with their projects including their CEO.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

It is an on-going process but the results are beyond our expectations.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Excellent. DSM guides the client every step of the way ensuring the project goals are met or exceeded.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

They grasp our needs and manage our expectations while bringing the project within the budget.

Are there any areas for improvement?

I can not think of any areas of improvement. They are a firm I would highly recommend without hesitation.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Corporate Essentials is New York City and New Jersey's premier office refreshment provider, offering more than 3,500 skus of snacks and beverages to offices of all sizes. When we started working with DSM, I was in the position of VP of Marketing, and during the time of the relationship I moved to SVP of Operations and eventually Chief Growth Officer.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire DSM?

When we initially engaged in conversations, we were looking to "refresh our website." What it turned into was a full re-brand of the company, and the creation of a full inbound, digital marketing strategy moving forward.

What were your goals for this project?

The original goals were a logo and website redesign before hiring DSM. After signing with them, the goal became much loftier - to create the new standard for the world of convenience services.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

Other vendors pitched us only on their vision of what we thought we needed. DSM went in another direction completely, and showed us their view of the landscape of our industry, and what we should be doing to be years ahead of the competition. They sold us the vision before we ever discussed what the cost of that vision looked like, and we decided that their vision perfectly fit our needs.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

The process began with several all-hands discovery sessions. The entire DSM leadership team and account team, along with the Corporate Essentials leadership team, at that time it consisted of the CEO, COO, VP of Marketing, VP of Sales and the VP of Operation. Over time the regular engagement continued with the VP of Marketing from Corporate Essentials and members of the DSM leadership team.

After the initial rebrand of company collateral and such, the focus turned to the company mission and values. They (DSM) had us focus on why we do what we do as opposed to what we do, and this helped us land on the concepts of company culture and employee happiness as why people use our products. The tagline of "Fuel Culture. Work Happy." became the driving force behind all things to do with Corporate Essentials.

In the years that followed, there continued to be regularly scheduled meetings with the newly formed Corporate Essentials Marketing Team, and regular work done by DSM including blog posts, website updates and SEO reviews and maintenance.

What was the team composition?

The regular DSM account team was composed of an Account Manager, a senior leader, an intern and a member from another department at all times. This last person changed some times depending on the current focus.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

The most-interesting outcome from this project is one that we've seen over the past few years as it relates to the Convenience Services Industry (of which Corporate Essentials is a part). From the time of the relaunch of the Corporate Essentials brand, and in the four-plus years that followed, there has been a shift with this industry of focussing on what the items sold represent (ie keeping people caffeinated and at their desks) to the "why" people choose to work with a Convenience Services company to promote company culture and improve employee happiness.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

There was never an issue with workflow. Using Basecamp and Slack as the main tools of communication were very effective for all involved.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

The thing that I found most impressive was the ability of DSM to feel like part of the company. We never felt like just another project, we always felt like the only project. They made an effort to understand our business and our industry and that shown through perfectly.

Are there any areas for improvement?

Off the top of my head, I can't think of any areas for improvement that stand out.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Marketing Manager of a medical company

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Our company diagnoses and treats musculoskeletal conditions—including bone fractures, sports injuries, and spinal deformities like scoliosis—that affect children and adolescents from infancy through young adulthood

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire DSM to accomplish?

• Website Redesign
• Social Media
• Marketing

SOLUTION

How did you find DSM?

Referral

Why did you select DSM over others?

• High ratings
• Great culture fit
• Referred to me
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from DSM were assigned to this project?

6-10 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

We have partnered with DSM for many years on a wide range of marketing initiatives. Their team has supported us with website design and development, content marketing, social media strategy and management, video production, digital marketing campaigns, and various branding and creative projects. Over the course of our partnership, they have served as an ongoing marketing resource, providing strategic guidance and execution across numerous initiatives to help support our organization's goals and growth.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Our partnership has resulted in significant increases in website traffic, audience engagement, and overall brand visibility. Through ongoing improvements to our website, paid and organic advertising efforts, social media strategy, and SEO initiatives, we have seen stronger digital performance and a more effective user experience across our online platforms. In addition, their work has helped us establish a unified brand voice and a clean, professional, and cohesive visual identity across all marketing materials. This consistency has strengthened our brand presence and improved the way patients, families, referral sources, and community partners engage with our organization.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Their project management has been excellent throughout our long-standing partnership. They consistently deliver projects on time and communicate proactively regarding timelines, milestones, and expectations. The team is highly responsive, flexible, and adaptable, often adjusting priorities and schedules to accommodate our organization's evolving needs. One of their greatest strengths is their communication and customer service. They are always quick to respond, provide thoughtful guidance, and remain accountable throughout every project. Their collaborative approach makes them feel like an extension of our team rather than an outside agency. Whether we're working on a website redesign, social media campaign, video project, marketing materials, or a new strategic initiative, they are dependable partners who consistently provide expert recommendations and high-quality work.

What was your primary form of communication with DSM?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

What has impressed us most about this company is their ability to provide honest, strategic guidance that is truly in their clients' best interests. When we first engaged with them, we knew our website needed a significant redesign. Rather than recommending an expensive, time-intensive overhaul all at once, they advised us to take a phased approach—prioritizing the most impactful pages first and gradually modernizing the site over time. This strategy allowed us to improve the user experience immediately, maintain momentum on other high-priority marketing initiatives, and spread the investment over the course of a year. As a result, we were able to achieve our website goals without sacrificing other important projects or stretching our resources too thin. That recommendation stood out because it differed from what other vendors proposed and demonstrated their commitment to finding the right solution for our organization rather than simply selling the largest project. Over the years, we have continued to benefit from their expertise, industry knowledge, and practical advice. They consistently take the time to understand our goals and provide recommendations based on best practices, making them a trusted partner and valued extension of our team.

Are there any areas for improvement or something DSM could have done differently?

At this time, we do not have any significant areas for improvement to note. DSM has been a valued partner for many years and has consistently demonstrated responsiveness, professionalism, and a willingness to adapt to our organization's evolving needs. They actively seek feedback and are proactive in addressing questions or challenges as they arise.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the CEO of Prodigy Benefit Management, LLC

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Integrated Healthcare Plan administration and design.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire DSM to accomplish?

• Establish a marketing program
• Redesign website
• Create ongoing web presence

SOLUTION

How did you find DSM?

Referral

Why did you select DSM over others?

Highly recommended from trusted source

How many teammates from DSM were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

DSM has developed the full on marketing and web presence of Prodigy Benefit Mangement. THey have redisgned our website , Seo optumization, Google and Microsoft advertising, LinkedIn posts, as well as marketing collateral for sales.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

We've gone from having no web presence to outpacing our competition, greater brand recognition and differentiation to getting our articles in quality  periodicals.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Project management has been exceptional, consistant communication and timely production. DSM is exceptionally responsive.

What was your primary form of communication with DSM?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

People. High quality people not just highly qualified with a consciousness to care.

Are there any areas for improvement or something DSM could have done differently?

None.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the owner of liquivida wellness center

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

medical spa

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire DSM to accomplish?

• advertising for new business
• drive in new clients

SOLUTION

How did you find DSM?

Referral

Why did you select DSM over others?

• Great culture fit
• Referred to me
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from DSM were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

run analytics and hubspot pages for business facebook and google ads

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

business increased and so did traffic to website and clicks

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

yes

What was your primary form of communication with DSM?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

the personal touch and dedication to the project

Are there any areas for improvement or something DSM could have done differently?

they were wonderful partners.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I served as the coordinator of marketing for this community bank.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire DSM?

DSM partnered with us as they offered day to day advertising design, guidance and support for marketing strategy. The team assigned to our account was always filled with great ideas for marketing materials in our branches, print ads and email blasts.

We worked closely with DSM staff on everything from strategy and planning to design and budgetary impact.

What were your goals for this project?

I could always count on them for creativity and a professional approach to meeting and exceeding our expectations.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

The Chief Operating Officer interviewed several local firms before choosing DSM for their approach and flexibility.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

They helped develop marketing materials and advertisements as well as planning and strategic advice.

What was the team composition?

I worked very closely with the VP of the firm. The principals were.always involved and accessible.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

We regularly had inquiries and business generated by our ads.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The team leader was always responsive, more importantly, she was proactive in addressing our needs and ensured we never missed a deadline.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

I learned a great deal about marketing and advertising strategy from their team, especially the project leader.

Are there any areas for improvement?

Nothing that I can point to.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the Owner of Sal Lauretta for Men. We are a men's high end clothing retailer specializing in custom made clothing.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire DSM?

DSM handles the entirety of our marketing. They design all of our print ads, website, emails and social media content as well as handling our inbound marketing.

What were your goals for this project?

specifically to grow our brand awareness in the tri-state area.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

They had been originally recommended to us to handle our social media. After a year of working together, we decided to leave our old marketing firm and hand over every component of marketing to DSM.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

We initially started with print ads and social media. As the advertising landscape rapidly changed into digital platform, we started working on developing a website and finally on SEO marketing.

What was the team composition?

At this point we have a monthly retainer in place. I would say a group of 5 to 6 people are working on our account at all times.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Since we've been using DSM, our sales have grown tripled.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

It is a seamless work relationship. They are constantly working on improving the lines of communications. These days i know exactly who to speak with depending on the project at hand.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

The quality of their work is exceptional, they excel in all fields. Both creative and technical work

Are there any areas for improvement?

At times i would like the projects to be submitted for approval in a more timely manner.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the President and CEO of a large neurosurgical physician practice.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire DSM?

We needed a little bit of everything. We needed SEO, in-bound and out-bound marketing, blog writing, etc.

What were your goals for this project?

The major goals were to build a superior website and a digital presence in our saturated healthcare marketplace. We needed to differentiate ourselves in brain and spine surgery.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We selected DSM because of their leadership style, personal touch, and ability to think outside of the box. They came with energy, talent and strong recommendations from their peers.

Describe the project and the services they provided in detail.

Website build from the ground up. Novel SEO strategy. In-bound campaign development and growth. Multiple microsite creations.

What was the team composition?

DSM had several people working on our account. From the President through creative, everyone pitched in.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any information that demonstrates the impact that this project has had on your business?

We were able to show that DSM's efforts increased our conversion rate by 5-10%, year over year. Also, we created novel channels for patient engagement.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

Again, they entire team worked well together in both formal and informal reporting, metrics and updates. It was very effective.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

The personal touch they give was most impressive.

Are there any areas for improvement?

The only area that lapsed was continuity of the team. We had a long engagement with DSM and, during their growth, we had a bit of team turn-over.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Partner - Manage the day to day operations of the company and bring in new revenue streams through client acquisition.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire DSM?

website redesign and digital content creation.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted to rebrand the website and begin to make more digital content in order to grow our foot print in the local and regional area.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We had worked with DSM in the past for some minor digital content creation and marketing services. When we decided to engage a firm for a major marketing campaign we re-engaged with them.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

They re-built the website from the ground up to incorporate the overall strategy. This included SEO, content creation, PR, blogging. We had multiple meetings

What was the team composition?

I worked closely with all levels of the firm. We had two dedicated staff members to our account.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

We had increased traffic to our website and lead generation;.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Very effective.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

They had great communication and were easy to work with.

Are there any areas for improvement?

None that I can think of.