PINetwork Annual Convention Overview

By Phyllis H. Shaw

PINetwork held its annual convention March 15-17, 2010, at the Cottonwoods Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona.  This year’s agenda was packed, with a combination of presentations from Professional Teledata as well as from many of our users.  There were several interactive sessions, with both presenters and attendees participating in the discussions. 

As part of his introductory comments, Jim Graham took a stroll down memory lane, highlighting the progression of the PIN group over the years – complete with pictures.  This was the group’s fifteenth annual conference, and many founding members were present.

Professional Teledata previewed some of their new features.  PInnacle dashboard shows a customized snapshot of what is happening in real time in an operation.  Highlights also included Real-Time Traffic and Enhanced ACD Monitor presentations.  Members shared reports that they have developed for a variety of purposes, including tracking employee statistics and performance.  There was a discussion of what PInnacle and Switch data members are currently analyzing.

The Disaster Recovery presentation covered various stages and levels of disaster recovery – from the most basic steps right through colocation.  The discussion covered everything from system backups and spare parts to complete colocation of offices and everything in between. 

A financial case study was presented.  This took the group through the many different financial aspects of our businesses.  Financial spreadsheets were shared so participants could put in their own financial information.  There was also a panel discussion on employee scheduling.  Panelists and members demonstrated how they use various employee-scheduling modules, as well as some creative methods they developed on their own.

The group was treated to a site visit to Contact One Call Center in Tucson, followed by a real western BBQ hosted by Judy Wood and her family.  The sprawling family ranch was the perfect setting for games, entertainment, good food, and fun.  Some went horseback riding, while others tested their skill at various games.  A few adventurous souls explored the desert on ATVs.  The menu featured an assortment of appetizers and several BBQ selections (chicken, pork, and beef), topped off by a variety of homemade desserts.  After dinner, we gathered around a campfire and were entertained with cowboy songs and dancing.  Jeff delighted us with some of his cowboy poems.  A great time was had by everyone!

Phyllis Shaw of Business & Professional Exchange is the past president of PINetwork.                          [download issue]