We’re getting down to business with mobile devices in registration...
Posted on August 15, 2011

Mobile devices, from smart phones to iPads to "who knows what's next", are becoming ubiquitous in our daily lives. So why not in registration?

ARI has been using mobile devices in onsite registration areas for several months, primarily with iPhones, iPads and Android devices. Because any of these devices can connect to ARI's StarPointe, they become an extension of the registration system. Among their uses, mobile devices have served as print terminals for ARI's Quick Print areas, as mobile terminals and even as Lead Retrieval Check-In/Check-Out terminals.

In an effort to better manage onsite trafLic, a remote printer station can be set up away from the regular registration crowd to process peak-time Quick Print registrants. Badge IDs can either be keyed in manually or a Bluetooth scanner can be paired with the mobile device for more automated processing.

Apple's iPad has been especially useful because of its larger screen. Both ARI's staff and our client's registration staff have found the iPad useful as a mobile terminal. Matt Boucher, Operations Coordinator for DiversiLied Business Communications, used an iPad at the International Floriculture Expo this year, saying “I was able to lookup and edit records, as well as print badges from my mobile device. It also allowed me to leave the onsite registration area to speak to customers while still having access to badge information and printing capabilities.” The ability to handle special cases using a mobile device during busy registration hours minimizes everyone's wait time and makes for a more efLicient onsite registration process. According to Mr. Boucher, “Having my own mobile unit allows my registration staff to work more efLiciently.”

We’re excited about the avenues mobile devices are opening to registration and are ready to introduce them to your next event. To discuss how mobile devices could best be utilized in your registration area, contact your ARI Project Manager or Kellie Stover.

Industry Corner - Multi-Year Contract Agreements
Posted on August 15, 2011

Multi-year contracts have become more and more common. For ARI, if it's not the standard, it's certainly the trend. There are many advantages to long-term agreements; advantages that we feel go both ways.

As a vendor, multi-year contracts prove beneficial in several ways. Most importantly, they lend stability to revenue forecasting which allows us to make important long-term investments wisely. We are able to put money toward employees and equipment... significant variables for us and our clients. They also allow us continuity in the way we assign shows to Project Managers. We've found there's a measurable advantage in having the same Project Manager handle repeat events. While we're happy to work with our clients on an event to event basis, we appreciate the partnership fostered in a long-term relationship.

The advantage of a multi-year agreement to our clients is simple... we offer you a 5% discount on your total registration contract price and then lock you into that price for the duration of your contract. If you're not taking advantage of this discount, and you're interested in hearing more, let us know!

Tech Talk - PCI Compliance
Posted on August 15, 2011

In today’s world of hackers and smackers, we recognize the importance of protecting your data. That’s why ARI has given PCI (Payment Card Industry) compliance the utmost priority. PCI data security standards are comprised of several requirements, all of which camp out on ARI’s collective radar.

Our customized registration pages are programmed to accept and process online payments in real time. As a Level II processor, we process online payments through our clients’ gateway accounts and deposit funds directly into their respective merchant accounts. This allows for timely transmission of funds to our clients supported by real-time Linancial reports in StarPointe, ARI’s client portal.

Ensuring the security of those transactions requires a number of efforts on our part. In addition to using SSLprotected web servers, ARI encrypts cardholder data in storage and transmission, retaining only the last four digits of the card number and the expiration date. The good news? We’re not storing sensitive information. The bad news? Don’t ask us for a registrant’s credit card information… we don’t have it.

To top it off, ARI’s system is scanned quarterly by an authorized PCI compliance scanning vendor, Qualys, to ensure ongoing compliance. We take great pride in handling your data in a secure manner and have processes in place to aid in that effort. Plus… we have the track record to prove it!

Where’s your school going?
Posted on August 15, 2011

ARI is excited to have the opportunity to take our technical capabilities to a venture outside of the events industry. Through a partnership with BookSmart Collegiate Travel Programs, ARI provides online housing services for university travel departments. These services are provided through an online interface with Hotels.com offering access to its vast selection of accommodations worldwide.

ARI's software developers create an online hotel reservation site that replicates the look and feel of the university's designated travel page. The program allows for a ghost card system of payment, as well as any other method of payment accepted by the university. We also provide a single sign-on capability allowing for authentication through the university's sign-on page.

Just like ARI's registration services, all databases are hosted on secure servers, with 24/7 online reporting and access.

ARI is pleased to be working with some of the most prestigious universities in the country. Have your favorite school give us a call, and we will show them how this service can create a new revenue stream for their travel department.

ARI partners with mobile app provider
Posted on May 27, 2011

ARI is pleased to announce a partnership with mTribe to provide a mobile app for each event contracting with ARI for registration services. mTribe apps transform the professional and consumer communities that use them; enriching interactions, relationships, experiences and transactions. Based in Cambridge, MA, mTribe is an industry leader in designing, building and monetizing mobile apps.

Each mobile app offers a complete show guide, conference guide and destination guide. Lodging and transportation information can be included in each app, as well as venue details, such as maps and parking information. Attendees can build a master agenda, download session presentations and participate in real-time session twitter. Polls and surveys may also be included. In addition, your mTribe built mobile app will provide direct access to social media sites, including sharing of video and photos. mTribe apps will be available on the following smart phone platforms: iPhone, Android, Blackberry and Windows Phone.

All of this comes at no cost to the event organizer! mTribe delivers fast, easy, monetized mobile applications for free. In fact, through sponsorships and creative revenue streams provided by mTribe, show management can expect to benefit monetarily from this amazing technology. ARI and mTribe will work together with both your sales staff and operations staff to ensure a smooth transition to a successful event app. Call today and let us show you how a mobile app will benefit your event!

Industry Corner - Do you co-locate?
Posted on May 27, 2011

Many event organizers have recognized the benefits of co-locating with other, like-industry events. Whether they represent complementing technologies or varying facets of the same industry, co-located events can provide benefits to event organizers, attendees and exhibitors alike.

Some obvious benefits include an increase in attendance, more bang for the attendee’s travel buck and more potential for exhibitor lead generation.

Have you considered the advantage of using the same registration company? Uniform badge printing and data collection allow for effortless crossover scanning and analytical reports. This can serve both organizers with enhanced attendee bases. Another area of consideration is the potential for cost savings. With one provider, event organizers may recognize savings in internet costs, staff expenses and freight charges.

But let’s face it - using one registration provider isn’t always going to happen. If organizers for co-located events are committed to using two different registration companies, no problem! We’re happy to work through logistics such as data sharing and badge formats with another vendor to ensure a smooth and mutually beneficial onsite process.

If you don’t already co-locate, maybe now is the time to consider it. ARI is honored to provide registration services to several co-located events and we’re always looking for more!

Did you know...?
Posted on May 27, 2011

• ARI first introduced self-registration in 1994.
• In 2001, ARI ran registration for Fall Internet World on 262 terminals and 11 servers in 7 separate areas of the building.
• 80% of ARI’s employees have been with us for 10 years or more!
• ARI’s first international event was in 1991.
• ARI ‘s longest, ongoing client relationship spans 20 years.
• ARI began offering web registration in 1996.
• ARI was the first registration company to print PDF barcodes on badges for lead retrieval, in 1994.
• ARI first provided RFID technology in 2006.

• Words from Dub
  Posted on May 27, 2011

  

  We’ve received lots of positive feedback on Phase I of StarPointe and we’re diligently working on Phase II. The primary change our clients will see is in the online reports. With enhanced features, intuitive queries and a sleeker look, we’re confident our clients will be equally complimentary of Phase II.

  Don’t worry... the reports themselves will still be the “tried and true” statistics you can depend on... just jazzed up a bit.

  We’re looking forward to revealing Phase II in the coming months.

ARI announces release of StarPointe
Posted on February 15, 2011

ARI is excited to announce the launch of StarPointe... the ultimate registration software solution for the events industry!

Phase One of this release includes a completely redesigned login menu; including assistance for lost passwords, hints for first-time users, and links for quickly bookmarking the page. Once inside StarPointe, clients will find a user-friendly landing page custom designed for the events we are currently servicing. From here, you may choose to enter either a production or testing environment for the intended action. Clients will also find quick links to the public registration websites for their events.

In future phases of StarPointe, you will find fully interactive setup utilities as well as redesigned reports that run faster and more efficiently. Additionally, all database queries will run in just a fraction of the current time.

Registration pages will become even more intuitive, making the entire registration process a more enjoyable experience. For exhibitors, a redesigned implementation of all utilities and help menus will make for easier and more efficient participation.

The release of StarPointe is the beginning of an exciting time for ARI and we're looking forward to sharing it with you as new features are rolled out in the coming months. Stay tuned as we highlight additional components in next quarter's newsletter!

Industry Corner - Social Media... Where’s the line?
Posted on February 15, 2011

Social media is commonplace. While participation is still an option, the force and influence of social media has permeated every part of our lives. It can be fun and informative, casual or professional, but is there a line?

As a registration provider, we're asked to facilitate using social media as a way to promote and/or enhance an event. While the big three seem to dominate our industry... Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter... the list of options continues to increase. Between blogs, videos, wikis (interactive websites), podcasts and a multitude of others, there seem to be endless ways to “connect” with people. While the process is clear, is it embraced and well-received on the other end?

Do you appreciate having professional relationships intermingled with your personal world on Facebook? Does the ramble of a Twitter feed inspire or annoy? If you're using LinkedIn to network, do you really want your great-aunt's half sister as part of your circle?

From our perspective, we recognize that the internet and social media empower collaboration and community as it relates to an event. We want to help our clients leverage social media in a way that their events are positively impacted. But we recognize that many people are still deciding about the most effective way to use social media to their advantage. Let us know your thoughts, and we'll put the wheels in motion for a social media solution that's right for you!

Tech Talk - accu what?
Posted on February 15, 2011

In addition to full-service registration and lead retrieval services, ARI has developed a portfolio of value-added features in an effort to enhance our core offerings. AccuManage and AccuMatch lead the bunch!

Need a solution for managing your exhibitors? AccuManage, ARI’s exhibitor management system, provides a “one-stop shopping” experience for each exhibiting company. Using a password-protected website, the exhibitor can complete their company profile for the directory listing, register booth personnel and access a host of PDF forms provided by the event organizer. This comprehensive system also contains an administrative login for clients to manage their list of exhibiting companies, proof/edit company profiles, alter booth allotments and access online reports. With AccuManage, you’ll experience a functionality-rich tool in one convenient portal.

AccuMatch, ARI’s leading edge networking service, is offered as a tool to facilitate connections prior to the event. The system allows attendees to identify exhibitors based on company profile information and request a meeting during the event. Each registrant has the ability to send messages within the system without sharing their email address and build an onsite itinerary as meetings are scheduled. In addition, marrying the data entered by the attendee during the registration process to company profiles, ARI generates a custom list for each user containing “Top 10” exhibiting companies to check out at the event!

Words from Dub
Posted on February 15, 2011

In addition to the release of StarPointe, ARI's new registration software, this week we are proudly rolling out a new company website. Click on www.accureg.com to see what we’ve been working on! In addition to fresh content, you’ll find access to StarPointe and archived newsletters.

As we enter 2011, ARI has a renewed dedication to offering our clients innovative and valuable functionality. Our focus remains on providing outstanding customer service paired with leading edge technology. We look forward to taking the journey with you!

Dub Heffington, President.
ARI, Inc.

ARI offers... A Better Answer
Posted on November 1, 2010

ARI is happy to announce its recent partnership with A Better Answer Call Centers, a professional telephone answering service, based in Dallas, Texas. By outsourcing the call center, we are able to offer our clients enhanced customer service with "24/7" event registration, information and assistance.

Currently, ABA answers 14 event phone lines for ARI and has the staff and capacity to handle many more. With an aim for excellence in accuracy, reponse time, courtesy and customer service, their operators are professionally trained and nationally recognized.

ABA is 100% paperless, meeting PCI compliance standards for financial integrity and providing for "real-time" event registration. In addition to a host of statistical reports, ABA has the ability to provide our clients with an audio recording (.wav file) of any given call to assist with training, clarification or conflict resolution.

Let us provide outstanding call center services for your event with A Better Answer.

Industry Corner - Let's go green
Posted on November 1, 2010

The focus on green and sustainable initiatives in our industry continues to move forward. While this can be another "area to manage" within an event, the time spent can be measurably rewarding. And the good news... no matter where you are in this process, there are more and more valuable sources available to help you achieve the level of "green" you're hoping to reach.

Specifically speaking from a registration perspective, there are two main areas where a difference can be made. The first area focuses on supplies and processes needed to execute a typical trade show or event. Many vendors of these supplies have green alternatives and the price of those options are coming down. A simple change in the material you choose for a badgeholder can make a difference. Or, eliminate the plastic badgeholder completely and go with a badgestock that can suffice on its own. Maybe you've mailed badges in advance of a show; consider eliminating all the waste that goes along with a badge mailing and only produce badges onsite. There are also electronic options that support a more green event: scanners that read a confirmation barcode on a smartphone eliminating the need for a paper confirmation letter, mobile apps that allow for downloadable handouts, etc.

A second area of focus is an awareness of available resources to help you green your event. An event venue or local CVB can many times provide you with information on partners that will assist you with waste removal and recycling at the close of a show. As the registration areas at events are dismantled, it is amazing the amount of printed material that is left over. The same applies to the exhibit floor and the printed collateral that is left behind. Nonprofit organizations like Greener Vegas, in conjunction with convention centers and show decorators, will collect unwanted materials and repurpose non-recyclable products.

Don't hesitate to get started. Most show organizers say the greening of their event was an incremental process that happened over the course of several show cycles and is continuously tweaked. And once you're committed to the cause, let your vendor/ partners know where you're headed; they can probably help you get there.

Tech Talk - Apps, Apps Everywhere!
Posted on November 1, 2010

With the growing number of smart phone users, ARI recognizes the value of mobile technology at events. We have integrated with several providers to bring finger-tip convenience in searching for exhibitors by category, show floor mapping, creating a personal agenda and much more! We're always open to partnering with 3rd party providers, so if we're not already integrated with your favorite, let us know.

Of course, an event app only brings value when there are registrants to use it. Do you know how many people visit your event's registration site but never complete the process? Don't let registrants slip by any longer! In an effort to track and reduce these numbers, ARI has recently added a feature to contact attendee prospects after abandonment. An automatic email is sent encouraging the registrant to complete their registration using the link provided. With this feature, we are also able to provide show organizers valuable data such as where the registrant stopped within the process and user contact information.

Words from Dub
Posted on November 1, 2010

A new "Look and Feel" is coming! As we continue to add new system features, ARI will be rolling out a major new release of our software. We are planning releases in two phases over the next year - look for details in the next newsletter. Of course, the upgrades will go deeper into the software than just the user interface; the new version will be more robust as queries are updated to search data faster and reports enhanced with new features. We're very excited about the coming improvements and look forward to offering our clients an updated user experience. Look for changes to start showing up soon!

Dub Heffington, President.
ARI, Inc.

ARI launches new service
Posted on July 15, 2010

ARI is happy to launch a new service to the tradeshow industry - a quarterly newsletter! We hope it will serve as an avenue for keeping our old friends, new friends, long-time clients, brand-spankin' new clients, future clients and industry associates abreast of the happenings at ARI.

We look forward to weighing in on industry challenges, addressing important issues and introducing new technology in registration and lead retrieval services.

Whether it's through industry headlines, the latest from our tech area or a wise word from our President, we hope you'll find our newsletter to be insightful and worthwhile.

Also, be sure to check the "upcoming events" section to see if we'll be in your area soon. We'd love for you to visit us onsite!

New Partnership Spotlight
Posted on July 15, 2010

ARI is proud to announce its new partnership with Realogy Corporation. Realogy produces a number of brand events each year and ARI looks forward to providing its innovative registration solution for them.

Industry Corner
Posted on July 15, 2010

Much of our industry has been following the events surrounding Illinois Senate Bill 28. This bill seeks to qualify the labor rates and rules at McCormick Place and Navy Pier in Chicago, Illinois. The current situation, regulated by the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority, has proved unsatisfactory to meeting and exposition planners.

While there are many schools of thought surrounding this subject, a perspective from the vendor side might be of interest. ARI's preference is to set up, handle and manage all aspects of our equipment. We own our own registration equipment and take full responsibility for any leased lead retrieval hardware. Allowing others to step in and set up or tear down that equipment widens the margin of error considerably. We feel that our customers pay us to manage the margin of error in an onsite environment for them.

That said, we have found that in situations where 3rd party laborers are mandated to be involved, we make the situation work. We are visible, present and involved in the set up and tear down of our equipment. We are respectful of the situation and committed to a positive and harmonious onsite experience.

Tech Talk
Posted on July 15, 2010

Summer is a busy time in the tradeshow industry and there's certainly no shortage of activity around the technical department this quarter. ARI has been developing new products, creating enhancements to existing products and partnering with great companies... all to provide the best solutions possible for our customers.

Have you ever had a hard time figuring out how this year's event compares to last year's... how about the last 4 years? We've added day-by-day reporting that compares the last 4 years all on a single report for true trend analysis. Once onsite, it's all about verification numbers, so we've added SMS text messaging which allows the show team to receive real-time updates on verification counts via their phones. The same SMS messaging functionality can also be used to stay in touch with attendees throughout the show. Increase participation by sending text reminders about upcoming sessions, activities and receptions!

Words from Dub
Posted on July 15, 2010

We're happy to introduce ARI's inaugural newsletter. The ability to communicate about current events which affect our industry, as well as new services and features, is valuable. In challenging times like these, we feel it is especially important to keep dialogue open with our clients. We want to be certain we are addressing both current and future needs.

Please know that we're here to help with any challenges you may be facing and will continue to pursue cutting edge technology applied to registration, lead retrieval and data management. We sincerely appreciate your confidence in ARI and will continue to develop innovative solutions to meet your needs.

Dub Heffington, President.
ARI, Inc.