Appligent and Document Solutions made news today, announcing a pact that will see the two PDF pioneers join forces to form Appligent Document Solutions. The merger marries one of the most established PDF technology specialists to the original professional services company dedicated to PDF solutions.

Appligent Document Solutions will integrate the offerings of both original companies, providing enterprise-class software, services and support for applications utilizing PDF technology. DSI Founder Duff Johnson will become the new company’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), while Virginia Gavin will become its President and Chief Operations Officer (COO) and Mark Gavin will be its Chief Technology Officer (CTO).

“We’re very excited by this merger,” said Appligent President and COO Virginia Gavin. “Duff has led the premiere PDF service bureau since 1996, and he’s one of the most recognized and respected figures in the PDF industry. Document Solutions has filled the gaps between software and customer needs for more than 12 years. Integrating our companies allows us to deliver dramatic new value to consumers of enterprise PDF technologies.”

“Individually, the two companies have set the highest standards for 3rd party PDF technology, implementation and support. Together as Appligent Document Solutions, we combine an unprecedented breadth and depth of experience with a unique position in the industry,” said new Appligent CEO Duff Johnson. “Appligent’s applications are legendary for their functionality, reliability and ease of implementation, and Appligent will capitalize on these qualities in no uncertain terms,” he said.

Operational integration has already begun, and will continue through Q4 of this year. Appligent company headquarters will be consolidated at Appligent’s existing facility in Lansdowne, Pennsylvania, while Johnson will be based at the company’s new Boston office. Existing California-based DSI and Appligent staff will also remain in place.

For more information on the original companies, check out the official Document Solutions and Appligent websites.

By Dan Shea Planet PDF Managing Editor