Making the connection at Computerm: president Doug Goodall must create an international presence and absorb growth. (Computerm Corp.)(People to Watch)

DOWNTOWN - Last spring, Doug Goodall found himself at a crossroads.

He had resigned from Black Box Corp. in January to pursue his dream of starting his own Internet-oriented company. Yet, when he took a phone call out of the blue from a recruiter, he liked what he heard.

Dick Madden, the chairman and co-founder of Computerm Corp., a local computer connectivity company, wanted to replace himself as president. It was imperative that the newcomer fit well within the close-knit ranks.

Mr. Goodall was intrigued with the possibilities and a series of meetings began.

For a couple of months, he explored both options, finishing a business plan for his startup company and sessions with Computerm's executives in a dead heat. A careful evaluation begat a revelation: "Computerm had everything I was looking to build," he said.

He joined Computerm in April and hasn't …