Message from the President’s Desk
Thanks to all of our customers both, new and long-term Avanti users, who joined us at our annual 2014 User Group Conference in Toronto.
This year’s theme was “Knowledge is Power” and, based on last year’s feedback, we went back to basics. This event was definitely FOR the users, BY the users. As a result, more focus was placed on real-life scenarios and, for the first time ever, our “Ask the Experts” room was open throughout the entire conference. It gave our customers the opportunity to spend quality 1:1 time with Avanti experts, and address questions specifically related to their installation of Avanti.
Avanti’s 2014 user conference was once again hosted by the user group executive and featured 4 days of education, panel sessions, product deep-dives and networking events. Avanti’s user conference is an annual opportunity for all levels of Avanti users to get together and learn from each other, and discover tips, tricks and insights to increase revenues, reduce costs, streamline workflows and enhance customer service. Our customers left with new ideas and best practices, with immediate and actionable takeaways to impact their bottom line.
The event took place at the Park Hyatt Yorkville from May 27 – 30th with presentations that took the user through the entire MIS cycle, from demand estimating through to shipping.
Because this event is all about our users, it was important that presentations involved both Avanti users and Avanti experts. User presenters included Chris Leduc, from Duke Printing, Kevin Lanuke of Blitzprint, Karen Meyers from Michigan Farm Bureau, Brian Trott of the US Senate, and Walter Kuric of CJ Graphics. Even our Avanti experts learned a few things from some of the tips that they shared.
I made a point of speaking with our users directly and here is just some of the great feedback I received:
“Great networking! Everyone is happy to share. I have picked up little tidbits from just about everyone.
I am going back and doing some training and solidifying our procedures. The one-on-one time in the ‘Ask the Experts’ room is invaluable.”
Myron – HOT Graphics“The table talk is invaluable between fellow customers.”
Dave – Real Green“The amount of knowledge in the ‘Ask the Experts’ room blows your mind!”
Walter – CJ Graphics“Wow! I already got my money's worth and the conference hasn't even started!”
Scott – Taylor Printing (in reference to the ‘ask the experts’ room)
The overall feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many attendees citing that this was the best User Group of any kind that they’ve ever attended.
This is a monumental year for Avanti as we celebrate our 30th Anniversary in September. In fact, 2014 also marks the 10 year Anniversary of when Stephen, Peter and I formed the new management team here at Avanti. Wow…time certainly flies!
This year also marks our entry into the European market. In November, we launch in the UK, with plans for France and Germany on the horizon.
We’ve seen a lot of changes over the years but one thing remains constant: our commitment to our customers. We pride ourselves on our innovation, fairness, honesty and agility to help you streamline your workflow and increase your revenue through the implementation of our Print MIS software.
As always, I welcome your feedback and can be reached via email at pbolan@avantisystems.com or phone 800 482 2908 Extension 266.
Sincerely,
Patrick Bolan,
President and CEO