Event Management with EventPro

What's the best way to find and sort Records in EventPro?

2011-12-28T08:56:00.034-06:00

Many of EventPro's records are contained in Selection Grids - a table of columns and rows listing a variety of related records.

If you are viewing all records in the selection grid, you can re-arrange the grid and re-sort the records to make it easier to find one record.

You can alter the horizontal positions of the columns by clicking and holding down the left mouse button on a column header, dragging the header horizontally to the right or left and releasing the mouse button to drop the column in the new position.

You can alter the sort order of the records by clicking on the column header by which you want to sort records (e.g. Last Name, Company Name, etc.). The red arrow in the column header indicates the sort direction. Click on the header a second time to reverse the order of the records. To sort by more than one column header, click on the header you want to sort by first. Then, hold down the Ctrl key while selecting the additional headings in the order by which you want the records sorted.

To return to the default column order and sizes, click the small empty cell to the left of the title row and select Reset Grid Customization.

If you are searching in a "Find" window, ensure that you are searching by the correct search term and that any relevant checkboxes are selected in the Find window.

If that still does not work, you may not be searching under the correct column header in the selection grid. Look for the small RED ARROW that appears in one of the column headers. EventPro will search for records containing your search term in the column marked by the red arrow.

For example, if you want to search for a contact by Last Name in the Find Company/Contact window, click on the Last Name column header and enter your search term in the Search For field. Matching records – i.e. contacts with last names that contain your search term – will appear.

For more information, see the User Manual at Introduction to EventPro, Common Functions: Selection Grids, Sorting Lists and Finding a Record.

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EventPro Keeps Important Documents at Your Fingertips

2011-12-14T08:51:00.015-06:00

You probably need to keep a few documents handy for every event – perhaps it is an event schedule or a specially crafted menu, or perhaps a specific floor plan sketched by the client.

Do you find that you simply don’t know where to store these documents so that you always know where they are and can access them instantly when working on the event?

Then you will find EventPro's Event Documents tab very convenient.

The Documents tab in the Event Maintenance screen allows you to store links to your event documents. Simply point the Linked File field to the location where you store the document.

The Enterprise Edition of EventPro also provides an advanced option. You can store the actual documents embedded in the Documents table, so that you don’t have to worry about other people moving the saved documents out of their specified folder.

For more information about this feature, see Chapter 3: Event Maintenance, Linking Documents to Events in the EventPro User Manual.

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Save Time with EventPro Communication Defaults

2011-11-30T09:32:00.032-06:00

If you want to save some time when working with Communications, make sure that you have set the communication defaults in your System Settings.

If you take a few minutes now to adjust these settings, you can avoid repetitive data entry in the future.

In the program, select Setup - System Settings from EventPro’s main menu, and click on the Communications tab.

For some of the default settings, you can choose whether EventPro will always perform the task, never perform the task, or prompt you each time to choose whether you want to:

Save a communication after sending an email
Save the letter content after sending an email
Create a follow up action after saving a communication
Save incoming attachments after saving a communication (Enterprise Edition only)
Save outgoing attachments after saving a communication (Enterprise Edition only)

For the other settings, you can choose the default entry that will appear in the field, so that you do not have to select the options every time you create a communication. You can select the default:

Outgoing communication method
Incoming communication method
Incoming communication reference
Subject format for event report communications
Whether to show the company name in the subject of a report communication

Saving a few seconds each time you send a communication will add up to a lot of time over the year!

To learn more about Communication System Settings, refer to the EventPro User Manual at Chapter 1: Setting Up EventPro, Step 1: System Settings, Communications.

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How to Set Up EventPro Catering Menus Quickly with "New Copy"

2011-11-16T08:27:00.017-06:00

To speed along your menu setup, EventPro allows you to copy catering configurations.

If you need to create several similar configurations, use the New Copy button to save time and data entry.

In the Catering Configuration Setup area, find the configuration/menu you want to copy.
Click the New Copy button to the right.
The "Catering Configuration New" form appears, pulling in the information from the catering configuration you copied.
You can now easily make the changes to price, default times, categories, items and more, as you require.

For more assistance, consult the User Manual at Chapter 1: Setting Up EventPro, Step 9: Resources, Catering Resource Items and Configurations: Copying Catering Configurations.

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Use EventPro to Increase Productivity and Save Valuable Time

2011-11-02T09:18:00.020-06:00

EventPro is great for improving organization and streamlining your event management process.

But you may be overlooking something that can save you even more valuable time: EventPro Training.

EventPro Training is an excellent way to increase productivity through more efficient use of EventPro Software. When you maximize your knowledge of EventPro, you can work faster, reduce repetition, automate procedures and optimize your database to improve performance.

Our EventPro trainers will teach you the expert tips you need to gain the maximum advantage from your software investment.

Even if you have received training before, supplemental training is still a great resource for your company. With our twice-annual Software Updates, we are constantly adding new features and benefits that you may not know about. A refresher course will take your EventPro skills to a whole new level and help you complete even the most complicated event management task with confidence.

If you have had staff turnover and need to train new employees working with EventPro, our expert trainers will get them started and bring them up to speed.

There are two options for EventPro Training:

Onsite Training sessions are conducted in the comfort of your own facility with a class size of one to six people to allow for hands-on instruction. Our trainer specially customizes the session to cater to the needs of your organization and staff members.
Online Training sessions are conducted through the internet and telephone with an individual or small group from your company. Online meeting technology allows the trainer and trainees to share a computer screen, essentially replicating an in-person environment.

For more details or a quote, contact our Account Consultants today.

Our consultative approach is focused on helping you understand EventPro's features and options so that you can determine whether our software and services are right for you.

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Track Leads, Evaluate Sales Success with EventPro Enquiries

2011-10-19T08:56:00.024-06:00

EventPro's Enquiries Module provides an easy and efficient way to track potential business.

Use it to collect and store all of the relevant information about a potential customer and event, including the enquiry source, lead status, estimated value, probability and more. Record ongoing communications with the customer and set actions to remind you to stay in contact. When the prospective customer decides to book your facility, simply convert the enquiry into an actual booking that uses the pre-entered data.

However, the Enquiries Module does not only streamline data entry. It can also help you analyze the success of your sales and marketing departments.

With your own customized Enquiry Sources and Status Codes, you can record where potential customers hear about your business and why they choose or do not choose your venue.

For example, you can create detailed enquiry sources such as “Phone Call: Word of Mouth”, “Email: Convention Booth” or “Email: Website”. Later, use the information to determine which marketing campaigns generate the most interest and the most successful sales leads.

With status codes, your leads are not limited to the standard “Hot”, “Warm” and “Lost”. Create informative status codes such as “Won – best selection” and “Lost – prices”.

The data can later be collected into reports that pinpoint the strong and weak points in your sales process.

Learn more about the Enquiries Module at Chapter 8 of the EventPro User Manual.

Want to try the Enquiries Module for free? Sign up for a free trial.

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How EventPro Makes Booth and Exhibitor Management Easy

2011-10-05T09:48:00.022-06:00

Do you organize Trade Shows, Exhibitions, Fairs, Conferences, Festivals or any other kind of event that involves Booths and Exhibitors?

Then you should be using EventPro’s Booth Module. It's designed to help you manage every detail related to exhibitors and booths.

Define Your Booths
You can set up general booths for each event, defining the Booth Type, Dimensions and Detail Items for each, or use the “New – Multiple” function to create several booths simultaneously.

Assign Booths to Exhibitors
When you assign a booth to a company, you can adjust the booth supplies, characteristics and rental dates according to the requirements of the specific exhibitor.

Custom Rental Codes
It is easy to set the rental fees exactly the way you want them, whether you use your pre-defined Rate Codes, create an entirely new charge for an exhibitor or provide a special discount.

And more...
Several other features in the Booths Module will make your job easier.

Registration Packages help you keep track of which exhibitors will be attending the event.
The Mail Merge allows you to send out personalized letters or emails to numerous recipients in one easy-to-follow wizard.
Communications and Actions ensure that you stay in touch with the exhibitors and complete all the required tasks within the deadlines.
The Finance section allows for adjustable third-party billing, batch invoicing, invoice mail merge and other flexible, convenient invoicing options.

To ensure that you can easily find the records you need, the Booths Module stores all of this related information in one convenient folder within the event.

Read more about the Booths Module in Chapter 6 of the EventPro User Manual.

Want to give the Booths Module a try for free? Contact our Account Consultants for a Free Trial.

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Use EventPro Packages to Simplify Event Resource Setup

2011-09-28T08:40:00.015-06:00

Does your venue frequently host the same kind of events, requiring you to set up the same or similar event resource items over and over?

Then you should be using EventPro's "Packages" features. It makes event setup so much easier. With the Packages feature, you can define a standard set of commonly used resources from the setup, staffing, catering and beverage items already entered in your Resource Setup.

For example, if clients often hold business meetings at your facility, you can create a special “Meeting” package, which perhaps includes tables and chairs based on attendance, coffee and tea service, rental of a projector and hire of a setup crewperson.

You have several options for pricing the package: you can set a flat rate for the entire package or use a per-person charge, or you can use the prices of the individual package items.

After you book a meeting event, you would simply add the pre-set Meeting Package to the Event Detail tab. The setup, staffing, catering and beverages resources assigned to the package will be automatically added to the event in one easy step.

However, you are not committed to the exact contents of the package for each event. After adding a package, you can easily customize the items for the specific event by adding, subtracting and editing resources as required.

The Packages feature can save you so much time! Just imagine if you book ten events with the same five resource items – you would have to go through the resource-adding process fifty times. With the Packages feature, you can reduce that number to ten!

To learn more about the Packages feature, see the EventPro User Manual at Chapter 1: Setting Up EventPro, Step 9: Resources, Package Configuration and Chapter 3: Event Maintenance, Adding Resources: Packages.

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Take Advantage of Online Convenience with EPWeb

2011-09-14T08:35:00.017-06:00

With the EPWeb Module, your staff and/or customers can conveniently view your Booking Calendar, find an event, search for Available Locations, send in Requests, make a New Booking, add Catering and Setup resources to an event, edit an event, make Payments, and add new Company Contacts – all online!

How can the EPWeb Module benefit your venue?

Attract Customers. EPWeb makes it easy and convenient for potential clients to check out your facility and make a request. The simplified online request form allows clients to tell you what they are looking for in their own terms, so that you can follow up with options and ideas tailored to the client’s interests.
Protect Your Information. The online convenience of EPWeb does not mean that just anybody gains access to your booking information. You determine the level of access each user has to events, event details, locations, setup and catering items.
Display Selected Events, Locations and Resources. When you set up resources and locations in EventPro, you decide whether they will appear on EPWeb. For each event, you can choose its web status, i.e. whether it is displayed online and, if so, how much information appears.
Unlimited Users! Now anyone can view scheduled events at your facility at any time from anywhere with internet access!

For a demonstration and quote, our Account Consultants will be happy to help you.

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Simplify Attendee Management with EventPro

2011-08-24T09:28:00.017-06:00

If your venue manages attendees, you know that it is difficult to track all the details involved in attendee management: Who is attending? Are they bringing guests? What attendance fee do they pay? Have they received invitations and responded?

EventPro’s Attendee Module simplifies all these tasks. It is specially designed to record and organize all of the critical elements of attendee management in one easy-to-use area:

Registrations: With the Attendee Module, you can create any kind of registration package you need with many different options, including a flexible charge structure that allows you to set up per-package, per-function, or per-table rates, or to create rates based on attendee type, company category or time of registration.
Seating and Table Arrangements: Seating arrangements save time, avoid confusion and make the most of available space. After you register attendees for an event and enter the required number of tables, you simply drag and drop attendee names onto place settings at the tables in the Event Function Seating chart. It’s that easy!
Communications & Actions: During event preparation, there is usually a steady flow of communication between organizer and attendees – invitations, RSVPs, registrations, event information, confirmations, invoices, and so on. Record all attendee interactions in the Communications area so that you always stay informed. The Actions area allows you to schedule reminders for tasks relating to specific attendees, ensuring that you complete all requirements on time.
Mail Merge: If you need to send a communication to multiple attendees, such as a batch of invitations or registration confirmations, the Mail Merge feature makes this task quick and effortless, while still personalizing messages for each attendee.
Guests: Categorizing an Attendee as a “Guest” allows you to link that person to another attendee, which is convenient for billing purposes. If several attendees are part of the same group, you can assign the attendees as guests of one main attendee so that you can bill one person for all expenses.
Finance: Record each attendee’s invoices and payments under their individual Finance tabs, or create a batch of invoices for multiple attendees in one easy step from the main Attendee Finance area.
Attendee Import: This is another time-saving feature that will help you avoid manual data entry. If you already have attendee information in files or databases, use the import feature to quickly add attendees to the event.

Learn how to set up and use your Attendee Module in the EventPro User Manual at Chapter 5: Attendees.

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Get Your Email in Sync with EventPro

2011-08-10T08:21:00.017-06:00

Did you know that you can synchronize EventPro communications with your email program? No need to copy and paste text – just a few clicks will assign an incoming email to a communication, transferring all the information you need.

It’s really easy to use. In any Communication area, click the New From Email button. The Synchronize Email window appears, displaying the emails from your Incoming Folder, which would typically be your email program’s Inbox.

Select the email and click Assign. Most of the communication information, such as the method, reference, related event, email address, subject and text, will simply default in. Make any adjustments you need and click Save.

The communication will be automatically attached to the correct attendee, exhibitor, or contact for the event, enquiry or accommodation reservation.

If you have the Enterprise Edition of EventPro, you can also save any email attachments.

For more information about using this feature, see Chapter 12: Communications, Part A: Communications, Assigning Emails to Communications in the EventPro User Manual.

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EventPro Makes Your Facility More Accommodating

2011-08-03T08:05:00.017-06:00

If your facility has in-house accommodations, EventPro's Accommodations Module will help you keep track of all the crucial details: the types of rooms in the facility, rooms available on a given day, variable room rates, occupants, check in and check out dates, additional charges, related events, and so on.

The Accommodations Module allows you to set up your facility’s rooms in any customized format you require. For example, you may choose to group rooms according to floors, size or other characteristics. If several rooms have the same or similar properties, the time-saving Multi-Add feature lets you add multiple rooms simultaneously.

You can then create your rate structure. Do you provide discounts, seasonal pricing or business rates? The rates will always be specific to your facility because you create them.

After you set up your rooms and rates, the process of making reservations is very straightforward. The Reservation Wizard guides you through adding all the details, such as check in/out dates, number of nights, and additional charges.

If a reservation is related to an event booked at your facility, the reservation and event can be linked for easy access.

Once you make reservations, you can conveniently view them in the graphical Accommodations Calendar. At a glance, the color-coded cells inform you how many rooms are still available, whether there are any room restrictions, and which rooms have already been checked into. Even more details will appear in the informational pop-ups.

To learn how to use all of the features of the Accommodations Module, consult the EventPro User Manual at Chapter 10: Accommodations.

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EventPro's Flexible Invoice Options for Any Scenario

2011-07-20T08:04:00.015-06:00

Invoicing is an integral part of any events-based business, which is why EventPro includes a comprehensive and easy-to-use invoicing system.

The most convenient invoicing option for EventPro, and therefore the most often used, is the Automatic Invoice, which automatically calculates the total for all chargeable items in the event, or directed to an attendee, exhibitor or accommodation booking.

However, did you know that there are other invoicing options in EventPro’s Finance area?

If you are ready for a more advanced feature in the Automatic Invoice, you can choose to invoice only certain Items, certain Types of items or a Percentage of the total charges. When you later invoice the balance of the charges, EventPro will calculate the correct remaining charges to invoice. So, for example, you could split event costs between two parties 50/50, or invoice a customer for 75% of all costs before the event and invoice the remainder (automatically calculated for you) after the event occurs.
If you have many invoices to create, and time is of the essence, the Batch Invoicing feature allows you to create multiple invoices for all events or all attendees/exhibitors in an event with one easy-to-use Invoice Wizard.
If you want more flexibility in creating invoices, you can create Manual Invoices, which can begin blank or with a calculated percentage of the total charges. You can freely add, edit or remove line items in the invoice.
Special Deposit Invoices allow you to deduct amounts from future invoices. For example, if you create a deposit invoice for an event, and later create an automatic invoice for the event charges, you will have the option to deduct the amount of the deposit invoice from the event charges invoice.
Finally, Credit Invoices allow you to credit a customer for items that were invoiced, but for which you will not receive payment. This eliminates the need to void and recreate invoices if an item must be removed from an invoiced event.

Use EventPro’s flexible invoicing options to create a billing system that works perfectly for your business. For more information, take a look at the EventPro User Manual under Chapter 10: Finance, Invoices for extensive instructions on creating invoices of every kind.

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Get the Information You Need with EventPro Reports

2011-07-06T09:51:00.013-06:00

With over 100 professionally designed, built-in reports, EventPro will provide you with the detailed information you need – fast!

EventPro’s reports cover all different areas of the program.

Use the Event Maintenance Reports to run a Booking Slip, Confirmation Sheet or Banquet Event Order (BEO).
Under Financial Reports, you can print Event Balances, Aged Invoices, Revenue vs Cost reports, and many more.
With the Event Reports, you can view Location Availability, Location Use, and Location Conflicts.
If you have the optional EventPro modules, you will be able to access special reports for Attendees, Exhibitors, Enquiries and Accommodations.

There are many more reports in EventPro, which should cover all your reporting needs, but if you have more specific requirements, you can customize existing reports or create entirely new reports in EventPro’s built-in Report Designer. NOTE: Customizing and producing new reports requires previous experience with SQL scripts and report building.

Most of EventPro’s reports can display different information depending on the options you select for the date range, included items, filtering, sorting, etc. After you run a report, EventPro gives you the option to print, view on-screen, email, or save the report to file. If saving your report to file, you can choose from a range of formats, including RTF, Excel, HTML, JPEG, and PDF.

Knowledge is power – and EventPro Reports will ensure that you have the knowledge you need! For more information about reports, consult the EventPro User Manual at Chapter 15: Reports.

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FAQ: Ensure all items are included in your Automatic Invoices

2011-06-29T09:06:00.020-06:00

Question: I know there are items that need to be invoiced for an event, but when I create an automatically calculated invoice, it appears blank. How can I find these items and include them in an invoice?

Answer: This question comes up pretty often, but it has a super-easy answer.

Ensure that you chose the correct Cutoff Date in the first page of the Invoice Wizard. The invoice will include all uninvoiced items up to and including that date.

For example, if a setup item is booked to be used at an event on October 26, 2011, the Cutoff Date of the invoice must be October 26, 2011 or later to include the item.

For more help with event invoices, see the User Manual at Chapter 4: Finance, Invoices: Creating an Automatic Invoice for an Event.

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EventPro "Caters" to Your Every Need

2011-06-15T08:03:00.000-06:00

EventPro's advanced catering system provides the mix of automation and flexibility you need to work with maximum efficiency while still allowing for easy event-by-event customization.

Where flexibility meets automation. EventPro's Catering system is at once automated and flexible. Catering menus are easily set up with defaults for cost, prices, items, quantities and so on, so that one click pulls all the information you need into an event order, saving time and data entry.

However, it is still easy to change the defaults and customize a menu for every event, if necessary. You can create totally customized menus quickly by multi-adding items from a master list or copying selected items from an existing menu. Mix and match, or stick to the standard menus – it's completely up to you.

Leave math to the computers. There are so many options for pricing your catering menus, and you never have to worry about tallying up the totals. Let EventPro calculate the final bill. You can set costs and prices for individual items, indicating the quantity per person for each if it is a multi-serving dish.

When you set up your menus, you can choose whether to price the catering per person, per item or a combination of both. Set a minimum margin for each menu so that you know you are getting the profit you want.

Record as much or as little as you need. EventPro's Catering system allows you to organize your catering under four levels: Groups, Menus, Categories and Items. You can record information within these levels in whatever way best suits your business.

You can also record preparation information for each catering item, which can be pulled into the menus, and record default comments for each menu, which can be customized per event.

Wrapped up in a neat little package. You can combine your catering menus with other event requirements, like bar services and rental equipment, to create special event packages. Packages can be priced per person or with a flat rate.

To learn how to use the Catering system, see the EventPro User Manual at Chapter 1: Setting Up EventPro, Step 9: Resources, Catering Resource Items and Configurations (setting up your catering menus) and Chapter 3: Event Maintenance, Adding Resources (adding catering menus to event orders).

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Visualize Your Venue's Potential with Images and Floor Plans

2011-06-03T11:17:00.000-06:00

If a picture is worth a thousand words, EventPro’s built-in image and floor plan tool will save you a lot of talking!

EventPro’s floor plans are clear, accurate, and easy to create, and allow you to present your customers with professional room setup plans. Using EventPro’s location image attachments, you can add pictures to both your locations and individual events.

For example, for a location, you could scan in a blank floor plan and add photographs of the location set up for different functions – weddings, conferences, cocktail receptions, etc. You could use these images to show customers the various capabilities of each location.

Then, if you book an event in a location, you can customize the location’s images for the specific event. Using the location’s blank floor plan, you can add objects such as tables, chairs, and other equipment to create a setup configuration suited to the customer’s needs. This floor plan layout can be distributed to staff to ensure efficient and accurate event setup.

You could also select the photograph of the location setup that the customer prefers, adding notes in the comments area regarding any unique touches the customer wants to add for configuration and decoration. If none of the location’s images show what you need, you can also add entirely new images specifically for the event.

If you want to learn how to use EventPro’s Image and Floor Plan Tool to create professional floor plans and demonstrate the potential of your facility to clients, consult the EventPro User Manual at Chapter 7: Images/Floor Plans.

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EventPro Software Update, Version 6.11.3.714

2011-04-28T10:16:00.000-06:00

A new update is available for EventPro Software. Log into the Support website to download the latest version.

Where do we get our ideas for new and enhanced software features? From valued UPP (Upgrade Protection Plan) clients and experienced event professionals like you, of course.

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EventPro's ACCED-I Trade Show Roundup

2011-04-07T08:05:00.007-06:00

Just last week, account representative Troy Wruck attended the 31st Annual ACCED-I Conference (Association of Collegiate Conference and Event Directors-International) in Orlando, FL. This was the 6th year in a row that EventPro has attended the ACCED-I conference trade show.

As Troy reports, the trade show was buzzing with energetic Conference Directors and Staff on both days. Troy had a chance to visit with some current clients, and was introduced to many new prospective clients. He had numerous conversations with many friendly ACCED-I members about software pros and cons, and plans to pass this valuable feedback on to our developers so our software can become better suited to ACCED-I members’ needs.

At the Region IV business meeting, Troy learned more about the challenges faced by those who run campus conference centers. Because funding registration for ACCED-I events is always a challenge, particularly for smaller universities, EventPro Software has agreed to sponsor a Region IV professional at the next Region IV meeting.

In addition to all this, Troy somehow found the time to be interviewed by Chris Augeri, Director of Conference & Event Services at Stonehill College, who was researching his Graduate Studies thesis on introducing a “real-time” campus-wide master calendar system at the college level. This sounds like a very interesting project and we look forward to hearing the results.

So, once again, Troy found the ACCED-I Conference and Trade Show to be a great experience, and we look forward to returning next year. We always look forward to these opportunities to meet our clients personally! Keep posted about future face-to-face events with EventPro's News website and sign up for our Newsletters - The EventPro Connection.

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Notice anything new? Why, yes, we DO have a new logo!

2011-04-05T14:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to the unveiling of our new EventPro logo! It’s not a dramatic change that will make you gasp in shock. We just wanted to freshen up our logo a bit – something a little cleaner, a little brighter and a bit more current. Our software is pushing forward into the future; we want our logo to come along with us. Here’s the new logo in all its glory:

What do you think?

You will soon see our new logo splashed all over our web pages, newsletters, blogs, Facebook pages, and so on. You may also come across the new logos for our sister products, EventPro Planner and PMXpert, as well as our parent company, Profit Systems Inc.

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See EventPro at ACCED-I Conference starting tomorrow

2011-03-26T09:53:00.007-06:00

The ACCED-I Conference starts tomorrow! Don’t forget to stop by EventPro Software at Booth 7. This is a great chance to see a live software demonstration and talk to our rep, Troy.

Before it slips your mind, jot down Booth 7 (EventPro).
Have fun at the ACCED-I Conference, and we hope to see you there!

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See EventPro at ACCED-I Conference, Booth 7

2011-03-17T09:50:00.000-06:00

Are you attending the ACCED-I Conference in Orlando, March 27-30? Come meet with Troy from EventPro Software at Booth #7.

Troy will be happy to provide you with a free, live demonstration of our professional event management and room booking software. In a few minutes, he can show you how EventPro will help you schedule event spaces, track resources like A/V and setup equipment, manage catering, create professional floor plans, and much more.

Take a moment to jot down "EventPro - Booth 7" in your schedule. We hope to see you there!

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EventPro is now on Facebook

2011-03-02T10:48:00.003-06:00

Like pretty much everyone else these days, EventPro Software is now on Facebook.

Even if you're not on Facebook, you can view our Facebook page by clicking HERE.

If you are on Facebook, click below to become a EventPro fan. Feel free to browse through our photos, leave a comment on our Wall, and read up on new EventPro information.

EventPro Manual in Print at Lulu.com

2011-02-16T09:33:00.000-06:00

EventPro's User Manual is now available for purchase in printed form. While we have a completely comprehensive free user manual on our website in HTML and PDF formats, we understand that some people just really can't do without the look, feel and reading-ease of good old-fashioned paper.

So, if you simply must have a printed copy of the manual, to save you the time and agony of printing and hole-punching 1000+ pages, our manual is now available for sale at Lulu.com. This is a print-on-demand service, so that manuals are only printed as needed, saving paper and expense. We have so much information in our manual that we had to split it into 3 volumes, so please note that you need to buy all three volumes for the complete manual, with Table of Contents, cross-references, and Index. Follow these links to find the manual on Lulu.com:

WARNING: Our user manual is constantly updated as new features are added to EventPro, so printed copies can fall out of date very quickly! Your best source for completely updated information is still our online manual at www.eventpro.net/manual.html.

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EventPro event categories make it easy to set to-do tasks and actions

2011-01-27T13:44:00.032-06:00

Recently, we mentioned the new Task Notification Service available in EventPro. That post described how the Task Notification Service uses your EventPro Actions (tasks) to determine when notification emails are sent and who receives them.

If you find that you are setting up the same Actions for events over and over (Check Deposit Paid, Confirm Catering Numbers, Send Invoice and so on), here is a time-saving tip: Create Event Category Actions in your General Lookup Tables.

In the General Lookup Tables, go to Event Categories. Event Categories not only allow you to categorize events for record-keeping, but they also function as templates in which you can enter the Actions that typically need to be performed and the Attendee Types that typically attend this kind of event. Create your event categories as required, and add the actions you think are relevant for each category. For more assistance, see the User Manual at Chapter 1: Setting Up EventPro, Step 4: General Lookup Tables, Event Categories.

Now, when you create an event of the set event category, those actions will be automatically pulled in to the event, without any typing or clicking! Or, if you want to apply the event category actions to an existing event, you can simply copy the actions into the event; see the EventPro User Manual at Chapter 11: Actions, Copying Actions to Events.

Content by EventPro Software

Automatic task notifications keep your event timeline on track

2011-01-20T14:43:00.000-06:00

If you've ever wished that someone would have reminded you before an important deadline passed, EventPro's Task Notification Service is what you need. It's like a to-do list that nudges you when something needs to be done. This service monitors the status of Actions (tasks) in EventPro and automatically sends notification emails to designated recipients.

So, to make sure that the Task Notification Service keeps you (or your co-workers) on track, you need to set up actions in EventPro. You can attach actions to events, contacts, attendees, and more, or just make a general to-do task. When setting up an action, you choose the User or User Group who is supposed to complete the action. That user or user group will be the recipient(s) of the task notification email. For complete instructions about setting up an action, see the EventPro User Manual at Chapter 11: Actions.

Once you have actions set up in EventPro, the Task Notification Service will monitor them and send notification emails as required. In setup, you can choose how often the service will scan your database and send the notifications. The "Reminder" date on the action will determine when the "Task Reminder Notification" email is sent out. The action's "Start" date will trigger the "Task Start Notification" email. Finally, when the action's end date/time has been reached, but the action is still not marked as "Completed", the "Task Overdue Notification" email is sent. For overdue actions, you can also set a repeat interval, so that the overdue notification is sent out at a set interval until the action is marked as "Completed".

Task Notification Service setup is covered in the EventPro User Manual at Chapter 19: Task Notification Service.

*Please note that the Task Notification Service is available only for the Enterprise Edition of EventPro Software.

Content by EventPro Software

New EPWeb Coming in Early 2011

2011-01-03T11:18:00.000-06:00

We like to keep things fresh around here at EventPro Software, so early in the New Year, we plan to release a brand new version of EPWeb. Our developers are just putting the finishing touches on it right now.

As you may know, EPWeb is EventPro's web integration module that allows unlimited users to use EventPro online. You can read about the current version HERE, but there will be some great changes coming in the near future. The new EPWeb features a sleek, new look and improved Booking Calendar. It is now also easier to set up, with no HTML skills required. There's more, apparently, but the developers don't have time to talk to me right now.

If you want to hear about EPWeb's release, watch for the announcement in our Newsletters and Bulletins. If you'd like to sign up for our newsletters and bulletins, email us at Feedback@eventpro.net.

Content by EventPro Software

Who's in Charge Here? Let People Know with Event Roles

2010-12-21T10:53:00.003-06:00

When you're booking an event in EventPro, you can specify who is in charge of what event elements by using the Event Roles. What are Event Roles? Well, you should have set them up in your System Settings.

Go to your System Settings and click on the Events tab. Under Event Roles, type in the typical roles that need to be filled for each event, e.g. Coordinator, Catering, AV, Finance, and so on.

Then, when you book an event, those roles will appear in the Event Information page of the Booking Wizard. Select which EventPro User will fill that role for the event. Now, everyone will know the go-to person for each department.

Assigning Event Roles in Booking Wizard
EventPro Software

For more information about booking an event, see the User Manual at Chapter 2: Create a Booking, Creating a New Booking.

Content by EventPro Software

EventPro at IAFE Trade Show and Convention 2010

2010-12-08T14:43:00.000-06:00

Our Account Representative, Ken, recently returned from the IAFE Convention and Trade Show in Las Vegas. Not only is Ken the newest member of our Sales team, but this was also his first trade show appearance on behalf of EventPro Software, so it was a whole new experience for him. However, Ken reported that he had a great time and met a lot of great people.

Ken's Notes from IAFE Trade Show 2010

Vegas was unseasonably cool. (Author's Note: Gee, that's too bad, Ken. Did we mention it was MINUS 17 C [1 degree F] here?)
All of the attendees were really friendly.
There were so many unique exhibitors, everything from butterflies and kangaroos to fire trucks, stilt walkers and hypnotists.
It was great to meet with current customers who dropped by specifically to say "Hi". Our clients had great things to say about our software (which is wonderful to hear), and our software trainer, Carrie, in particular got a lot of compliments.

So, if you didn't have a chance to catch up with Ken at the show, hopefully we can get in touch at the next event. Subscribe to the EventPro newsletter to hear about all the latest news, including future trade shows and conventions we will be attending.

Content by EventPro

How does EventPro stack up? Try our Buyer's Checklist

2010-12-03T11:02:00.035-06:00

It's tough to research a software purchase these days. There are actually too many options! There are so many different software packages and websites, it is almost paralyzing. How do you choose?!

Well, if you're in the market for event and venue management software, we want to make it easy for you to compare EventPro Software to our competitors. Feel free to download our Buyer's Checklist and see how EventPro stands up to other software packages.

If EventPro out-checkmarks the rest (and we're confident it will), contact us for a totally free, no-obligation software trial and online demonstration. Call (306) 975-3737 or email Sales@eventpro.net or fill out the online form HERE.

Post by EventPro Software

New EventPro Update: Version 6.11.3.709

2010-11-25T12:10:00.001-06:00

There is a new EventPro Software Update available: Version 6.11.3.709. To download this latest software update, log in to the EventPro Support Website. Choose the Downloads tab and select the EventPro Install 6.11.3.709 link.

Why update your software? With each new version, EventPro becomes more flexible and powerful. To see the changes and repairs in EventPro, go to Help - What’s New in your EventPro Software program.

To access software updates, you need a current Upgrade Protection Plan, a yearly contract that gives you access to software upgrades and updates, unlimited software support via email and phone, and more. If you need to renew your Upgrade Protection Plan, please contact a Sales Representative.

Do you want to hear about updates to EventPro as soon as possible? Follow us on Twitter at @eventproupdates.

Content by EventPro Software

Coming Soon: Automated Task Notifications

2010-10-28T07:49:00.001-06:00

Attention EventPro Users:

EventPro will soon be offering a new Automation Service.

The Automation Service will continually scan your EventPro database and look for things to do based on the rules you have set up. The first phase of the Automation Service - "Action Notifications" - will monitor the status of Actions in EventPro and send automatic emails to the designated users when Actions are about to start (Reminders), have started and are overdue.

However, we plan to do much more with our Automation Service in the future. There are many possibilities for automation in EventPro. This is where you, our valued clients, come in. Many of our ideas for great new features come from client suggestions. Do you have an idea for what our Automation Service should do? Send us your suggestion through our suggestion form in your region:

North America
United Kingdom
Australia

Note that you will need to log in with your User ID and Password. Submitting development suggestions is one of the many benefits of maintaining your annual Upgrade Protection Plan.

The initial phase of the Automation Service - Action Notifications - will be available soon. If you want to be notified of its release, contact our friendly and helpful Sales Representatives in the region nearest you:

North America
United Kingdom
Australia

Content by EventPro Software

Create Catering/Beverage Menus Quickly with New Copy

2010-10-11T09:13:00.009-06:00

To speed along your menu setup, a new feature in EventPro allows you to copy catering and beverage configurations. This is handy if you want to create several similar configurations with slight variations.

In the Catering Configuration Setup area, find the configuration you want to copy. Click the New Copy button to the right. The Catering Configuration New form appears, pulling in the information from the catering configuration you copied. You can now easily make the changes to price, default times, categories, items and more, as you require.

For more assistance, consult the User Manual at Chapter 1: Setting Up EventPro, Step 9: Resources, Catering Resource Items and Configurations: Copying Catering Configurations.

Content by EventPro Software

Meet EventPro Face-to-Face at IAFE Convention

2010-10-08T09:09:00.008-06:00

If you want to put a face to EventPro Software, meet up with our representative, Ken Neudorf, at the IAFE (International Association of Fairs and Expositions) Convention and Tradeshow in Las Vegas.

The 2010 IAFE Annual Convention takes place November 29 to December 2 in Las Vegas Nevada. The theme of this year's convention is "Aim Higher". Our man on the ground, Ken, will aim to get you better acquainted with EventPro. Ken will be at Booth #1319 to demonstrate EventPro and answer your questions. He invites anyone and everyone to drop by for a chat. Here is Ken’s schedule:

Monday, November 29. 3:00PM to 6:30PM
Tuesday, November 30, 11:00AM to 5:00PM
Wednesday, December 1, 10:30AM to 2:30PM

For more information about the IAFE Annual Convention, see their website HERE.

Content by EventPro Software

Keep Your Venue in Top Condition - Free Software Trial

2010-10-06T09:09:00.004-06:00

EventPro Users: To host events that impress, you need a top-notch venue.

How can you keep your venue looking its best?

Maintaining the appearance and safety of your venue is of utmost importance. You want clients to be confident that your venue can handle first-class events. How can you keep your venue well-maintained while keeping costs to a minimum? Try EventPro’s sister product, PMXpert Software, a complete preventive maintenance solution.

With PMXpert, you can schedule routine tasks like inspections and cleaning to combat the everyday wear and tear on your facility, and prevent larger problems from arising. For the emergency repairs that can’t be avoided, PMXpert helps you address the problems more efficiently to minimize the disruption and reduce the downtimes that cut into your venue’s availability (and your profits)!

As an added bonus, you will have a leg up on learning PMXpert Software, as its intuitive and easy-to-use interface is similar to EventPro Software.

To find out everything PMXpert can do to keep your facility in tip-top shape, try out PMXpert Software with a free 30-day trial by clicking HERE. Please quote Promotional Code EPNL1010A.

Content by EventPro Software

Warm brown decor creates aura of elegant comfort

2010-09-17T15:06:00.001-06:00

As the cool winds of fall descend upon us (at least where we live - it's freezing here!), we long for warm and comforting surroundings. And what color is more warm and comforting than chocolate brown?

Take a look at this lovely chocolate brown and cream decorating theme, courtesy of Gina Digness at The Rent-It Store Wedding and Specialty Center.

Photos courtesy of The Rent-It Store Wedding & Specialty Center

I love the combination of champagne, chocolate, and soft pink hues. Doesn't it look warm and inviting? And - somehow - delicious? The decorations make me think of sea coral and candy, simultaneously. And they also resemble intricately decorated cake balls, which reminds me of those available from Sphere-Licious: The Chocolate Cake Ball Company, http://www.chocolatecakeballs.ca/.

Another way to infuse that warm cream hue into your decor would be with accessories made of capiz shells, like these Capiz Flower Candleholders or Bronzed Gold Capiz Bowls from Ten Thousand Villages. Capiz absolutely glows when lit with candlelight - perfect for your champagne and chocolate color scheme.

Honor your elders on Grandparents Day

2010-09-12T09:04:00.003-06:00

Did you know that today is Grandparents Day? Grandparents Day was initiated in 1970 by Marian McQuade, when she began a campaign for a special day to honor grandparents. Grandparents Day is now celebrated annually on the Sunday after Labor Day, with these three purposes:

To honor grandparents.
To give grandparents an opportunity to show love for their children's children.
To help children become aware of the strength, information and guidance older people can offer.

Source:
National Grandparents Day Council, www.grandparents-day.com

If you can, call up your grandparents, or any grandparents you know, and tell them how much you appreciate them. Better yet, stop by for a visit. If you are a grandparent, take a moment to go and claim your hug from your grandkids. You've earned it! For activity ideas, see Grandparents.com.

Forget-Me-Not, official flower of National Grandparents Day
Source: Wikipedia.com

Lay down your labor on Labor Day

2010-09-06T08:07:00.001-06:00

Ahhh, Labor Day – the bittersweet last gasp of summer before the cool winds of autumn sweep us towards winter. As you relax and enjoy the long weekend, you may ask: What inspired this end-of-summer reprieve from work?

In Canada, Labour Day originated in the 1880s. The Toronto Printers’ Union went on strike in 1872, seeking to reduce their work to 58 hours per week (that’s right – reduced to 58 hours per week). Workers in Toronto marched in a solidarity parade. Prime Minister Sir John A. Macdonald sided with the workers over the employers, and enacted new legislation that legalized union activity. The parades continued as an annual tradition, and Labour Day was legislated as a national holiday in 1894.

In the United States, the first Labor Day was celebrated on September 5, 1882. There is still some debate over who had the idea first. Some sources claim that Peter J. McGuire, co-founder of the American Federation of Labor, witnessed a labour parade in Canada, and brought the idea back to New York. Others say that Matthew Maguire, the secretary of the Central Labor Union, thought it up. McGuire or Maguire – take your pick. In any case, after experiencing violent labor unrest during the Pullman Strike, President Grover Cleveland enacted legislation in 1894, officially creating the national holiday of Labor Day.

Sources:
Origins of Labour Day, James Marsh, The Canadian Encyclopedia
Why Do We Get Labor Day Off? Brendan I. Koerner, Slate Magazine
Labor Day, Wikipedia
Labour Day, Wikipedia

Computers decrease attention span...Wait, come back!

2010-08-28T11:48:00.007-06:00

As we multi-task with our computers and mobile devices, we like to think we are more efficient and productive than ever, but a recent article in the New York Times, Attached to Technology and Paying a Price, explains that we're wrong. According to scientists, because of the constant stream of information from technology, we are changing the way we think and we are losing our ability to focus.

We old timers who remember life before the Internet like to grumble about how, in our day, we had to write letters by hand, look up things in books, and walk twelve miles to school, barefoot, in the snow, uphill both ways. Now, we know that our very brains were different back then, consarnit!

At EventPro, we say "If you can't beat 'em - join 'em." Check out our EPMobile application! Now you can check in on your Booking Calendar...

on a date
at your kid's baseball game
in the bathroom

Keep EventPro attached to your hip, 24/7. If you have managed to read this far (you must be over 30), and want to know more, visit our website here.

Event Crossover - One Big, Happy Event Family

2010-08-24T08:01:00.008-06:00

A lot of the neat ideas I find for posts originate from weddings, and I often conclude with, "But this could work for all kinds of events!". I feel much more justified after reading The Big Shift in the Events Industry on Ready2Spark.com. In the post, Lara explains that because of social media like Facebook and blogging, she has noticed that the former sharp divisions between different kinds of event industries are starting to fade. You can read the whole article here.

So, I guess the take-away message is that event planners shouldn't be afraid to look to other kinds of events for ideas and inspirations that enhance their own area in the event industry. What is your experience? Have you found that increased exposure to ideas through social media has changed your approach to managing events?

Get Those Event Photographs Before They're Gone

2010-08-22T10:10:00.004-06:00

Does this sound familiar? You're at a great event. Dozens of people take funny, beautiful and/or priceless pictures. Everyone looks at each other's cameras and declares, "I totally want a copy of those pictures! Email them to me! I'll email you mine". Shortly after the event, lethargy ensues. People can't find email addresses. Nobody totally gets a copy of those pictures.

On a related note, a colleague of mine is getting married, and we got around to discussing how to get photos from guests. I suggested that in lieu of handing out disposable cameras (the old-school, pre-digital solution), she could hand out cards to the guests detailing where they can send their photos from their wedding - perhaps a dedicated email account or an online album. I thought I was extremely clever, until I realized it's already been done. Here are some ideas from people who thought of this before me:

Army of Photographers (weddingbee.com) - The author explains how she set up an account to collect photos and video from her wedding guests.
My First DIY Project (weddingbee.com) - This is more or less the same idea, but a comment providing a low-tech alternative caught my eye. One reader explained that she put out a basket of CDs in pre-addressed stamped envelopes for people who wanted to mail their photo files, which got around the problem of everyone using different photo-sharing sites.

My colleague also thought that she could perhaps set out her laptop computer at the wedding reception, and let people download photos right from their memory cards before they leave. This idea would work if (a) you trust your guests around your computer, and (b) guests are still sober enough to handle a computer by the end of the event.

Couldn't these ideas work for special events other than weddings? With a little bit of planning ahead, this seems like a good way to get those photographs passed around before they fade from the collective memory. Has anyone tried this before? Do you have other ideas for collecting photos from event attendees?

Set up catering quickly with new Menu Copy

2010-08-20T08:15:00.003-06:00

Preparation is everything - especially with EventPro's catering system. Once you have your system set up, you just have to click and select what you need for each event.

A handy new feature added by our development team makes catering menu set up easier and faster. The new "New Copy" button allows you to create similar catering configurations much more quickly. After you copy a configuration, you only need to adjust the details on the copied menu, instead of creating a whole new configuration from scratch.

In the Catering Configuration Setup area (select Setup - Resources - Catering Configuration from the menu), look for the New Copy button along the right side. For more information, see Copying Catering Configurations in the recently updated EventPro User Manual.

Birds of a Feather Flock to Peacock-Themed Decoration

2010-08-18T09:19:00.001-06:00

I don't know if peacocks are popular right now, but I am personally going to declare that peacock-themed decoration is a hot upcoming trend, based entirely on my personal inclination. I think peacocks make for fabulous decorating for two reasons:

(1) peacock blue is a gorgeous color (see photo), and
(2) peacock feathers are super cool. (Although, apparently, some people think peacock feathers indoors are bad luck.)

Also, there is something extra luxurious about the peacock - a creature that seems to exist solely for the purpose of strutting around and looking beautiful.

Here is a beautiful example of a peacock feather centerpiece, courtesy of Gina Digness and The Rent-It Store Wedding and Speciality Center in Saskatoon. I love the exotic and mysterious feel created by the peacock feather and blue uplight.

You can see all of The Rent-It Store's portfolio on Facebook and on their website.

I found some other cool peacock-related items on ThisNext.com. Here are some beautiful Peacock Feather Cards from Blackbirdletterpress and Peacock Wine Glasses from marywibis, both on Etsy. There are several other types of wine glasses from marywibis on Etsy, including Wedding Toasting Flutes that make other toasting glasses look as interesting as tin cans.

Capture the exotic feel of India with the Tree of Life Wall Hanging from Ten Thousand Villages:

This EarthLust Stainless Steel Bottle is both stylish and practical (photo from ThisNext.com). It would make a nice addition to gift bags for your peacock-themed event.

Going Green: Good for Earth, Good for Business

2010-08-15T08:49:00.029-06:00

EventPro is going green, or - more accurately - staying green. For several years now, we have been following environmentally friendly practices like using web conferencing in place of travel, offering user manuals online instead of in print, reducing paper use in administration and marketing, and providing software via Internet download instead of CD. Going green is not only good for the planet; using fewer resources and minimizing waste is just plain smart for business, too.

To read about our Green Initiatives, click HERE to go to our website. Please let us know if you have any comments or questions.

Have you been taking steps to "green" your business? It seems like a lot of people in the events business have started to pursue environmentally sound practices in response to demands from clients. Event managers and planners often need to find ways to make special events more environmentally friendly. For example, see the National Recycling Coalition’s Green Meetings Policy, which describes numerous green ideas for events, such as using electronic advertising, registration and handouts for attendees, using china service instead of disposable tableware, composting food waste, and providing easy-to-find recycle bins.

Some other articles you might find interesting:

Why Should a Business Go Green? (brighthub.com)
Earth Talk: Greening the office (eco-officegals.com)
Green Checklist: Check green meetings off your list (smartmeetings.com)

Image via Wikipedia

It's Friday the 13th...

2010-08-13T10:26:00.002-06:00

Image via Wikipedia

Does this make you nervous, or did you not even notice? If Friday the 13th stresses you out, you are not alone. According to Donald Dossey, the founder of the Stress Management Center and Phobia Institute in Asheville, North Carolina, there is approximately $800-900 million lost in business on Friday the 13th because people won't fly or do business as usual. For the full story, see Friday the 13th Phobia Rooted in Ancient History by John Roach (news.nationalgeographic.com).

So where did this fear of Friday the 13th come from? According to Wikipedia, there is no definitive origin of the superstition. It may just be a combination of two other superstitions: 13 is an unlucky number and Friday is an unlucky day.

I figure even if you don't really believe in the Friday the 13th superstition, why risk it? Instead of working on a project that could be tainted by the whiff of bad luck, it's probably better to kick back and relax safely at home. I'm sure your boss will agree!

GrammarBot 9000: It's and Its

2010-08-11T15:36:00.001-06:00

GrammarBot 9000 is back, putting the fun in grammar. What's that you say? There's no "fun" in grammar? Exactly. Back to work.

It's is a contraction of it and is. It's cold outside.
Its is possessive. The snowman couldn't find its jacket.

People often want to use "it's" as possessive, because we use 's to show possession every other time - Tim's car, Jane's house, and so on.

Foolproof quick check: When you see "it's", read it as "it is". It is cold outside. The snowman couldn't find it is jacket. The error jumps out at you, ready to be corrected.

Hot Fashion Colors for Autumn

2010-08-10T08:10:00.000-06:00

If you have an event coming up in the autumn and need some color inspiration, take a look at Pantone Fashion Color Report for Fall 2010. Pantone declares that the hot colors for the autumn will be:

Endive (Pantone 13-0632)
Golden Glow (Pantone 15-1050)
Living Coral (Pantone 16-1546)
Lipstick Red (Pantone 19-1764)
Purple Orchid (Pantone 18-3027)
Chocolate Truffle (Pantone 19-1526)
Lagoon (Pantone 18-0538)
Woodbine (Pantone 18-0538)
Oyster Gray (Pantone 14-1107)
Rose Dust (Pantone 14-1307)

My personal favorites are Purple Orchid, Living Coral, and Lagoon.

(If you love turquoise and can't get enough of it, see the House of Turquoise blog).

To see the whole set of colors, download the full report at http://www.pantone.com/downloads/articles/pdfs/PANTONE_FCR_Fall2010.pdf

Reduce clutter and get paperwork organized

2010-08-09T08:05:00.000-06:00

Do you despair of the paperless office ever arriving? Apparently, if it will ever arrive, it will not be for a very long time: see Will we ever achieve the paperless office? (guardian.co.uk). Well, in the meantime, all you can do is try. There are a few things you can do in EventPro that should clear some paper off your desk.

One way of reducing paper clutter is to scan documents into electronic files and attach them in EventPro. Events, companies, contacts, attendees and exhibitors all have special folders that allow you to store related documents or links to documents. Just look for the "Documents" tab, usually in the bottom section of the screen. What could you add as attachments? Some ideas are menus, schedules, speaker biographies, photographs, floor plans, room setup - anything you want to store for that particular person or event.

EventPro Communications can help you reduce paper consumption and - bonus! - keep you more organized. For example, you can sync your email with communications so that all the information in an email is pulled directly into an EventPro communication. No need to print and file communications with clients. Instead of scribbling on a sticky note every time you call a client or meet in person, keep notes in EventPro Communications, which you can date and label accordingly: "Phone Call", "Meeting", etc. This will keep all client communications neatly organized in one spot and easy to find.

You can also save on paper by emailing invoice, receipts and reports as PDF, RTF or TIFF attachments, instead of sending paper copies by mail. When you go to print an invoice, receipt or report (such as a Confirmation Sheet or BEO), you will see an Email option in the upper right corner.

If you want to learn how to take advantage of these various features in EventPro, check out the Online User Manual:

Chapter 12: Communications, Part A: Communications
- Printing/Sending/Recording a Communication
- Assigning Emails to Communications
Chapter 15: Reports
- Print Report to Printer, Screen, File or Email

How is your email report card? Straight A or Failing Miserably?

2010-08-07T20:17:00.000-06:00

If you're reading a blog, you're probably technologically competent, so you have probably been using email for a long time. You may think you have this email thing down pat, since experience = wisdom. However, if you want to ensure that you aren't making rookie mistakes, check out this blog post: Organize Anything: Are you getting an "F" in Email? (organizeanything.blogspot.com)

The author makes some excellent points about how to better use and organize email. I laughed when I read about the "secondary “oops” email" people send when they forget the attachment in the first email. I'm guilty of that email fail.

If I could add another "F" to her list, I would say "Font": use professional, clear, easy-to-read font instead of colorful, googly, scripty font with marching ants or blinky lights around it. Also, don't type in all caps or use excessive exclamation points. IT'S LIKE YELLING IN SOMEONE'S FACE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Seating Arrangements for Meetings

2010-08-04T08:05:00.001-06:00

On MeetingsCanada.com, the article Meeting Room Layouts That Work reviews the common seating options for meetings, with helpful tips for when these arrangements are best used.

For example, the article states that the "Classroom Style" is the typical setup for an event where attendees will be taking notes. They suggest that having three chairs per eight-foot table is better than four chairs, in order to provide ideal participant elbow room. There are other great tips for using Boardroom Style, E-Shape, Crescent Rounds, Banquets (their tip: 6 is better than 8, and 8 is better than 10), and so on.

The article also notes that you should give the setup staff "good detail" on how you want the seating arrangement done. In case you forgot, we did a handy Floor Plan Overview posting a few weeks ago. Check it out if you want to start making your own floor plans in EventPro.

Follow EventPro on LinkedIn

2010-08-02T08:05:00.005-06:00

Are you LinkedIn? You can now follow EventPro from LinkedIn Company Profiles. Go to
http://www.linkedin.com/companies/eventpro-software, or click the button below.

Logos that make you look twice

2010-07-30T10:44:00.000-06:00

A few days ago, we told you how to change your company logo on EventPro reports, invoices and receipts.

Speaking of logos, how does your company logo stack up against the logos featured in 50 Fantastically Clever Logos | Design Shack (designshack.co.uk)? I love these logos. Not only do they look good, but they are also really witty. If you have a moment, take a quick scroll through the list. In comparison, does your logo need a bit of sprucing up?

Do your clients demand the royal treatment?

2010-07-28T13:48:00.001-06:00

You may find that you have to fulfill a lot of royal demands for your events, so imagine how many more there are when coordinating a royal tour for a Queen! Kevin MacLeod, the Canadian secretary to the Queen, assisted in organizing the her recent visit to Canada. The painstaking details of organizing a royal tour are described in The Queen’s Man on the Ground in Maclean's. In addition to the regular requirements for any special event, MacLeod had to deal with extra complications, like royal protocol, and work with groups that the average event planner probably doesn't have to, like Health Canada, the RCMP and the Department of National Defence. In comparison, do your most demanding clients seem quite so demanding?

How to Create a Floorplan in EventPro

2010-07-28T11:47:00.000-06:00

Floorplans are handy if you want to ensure efficient and accurate setup for an event, particularly if you don't have time to supervise the placement of every table and candleholder.

The first step to creating an event floorplan is to add a diagram of the room to EventPro, if that hasn't already been done. From EventPro's main menu, select Setup > Location > Locations, and add the diagram under the Images tab for the room.

Next, you will add that diagram to the event. In the Event Maintenance screen, select the relevant booked location, and click "New" in the Images tab. You will be able to choose from images that you have already associated with the location.

Now, in the bottom left corner of the New Image window, click the Floor Plan Layout button. You can drag and drop objects such as tables, chairs and other equipment onto the floor plan as required. Save your floorplan and distribute copies to your setup staff.

There are detailed, step-by-step instructions in the User Manual at Chapter 7: Images/Floor Plans. It will walk you through adding images to locations in setup, adding images to an event, and putting objects onto floor plans.

Question: How do I change my logo?

2010-07-26T13:23:00.003-06:00

The logo that appears on reports, invoices and receipts is set in your System Settings. To change it, choose Setup - System Settings from EventPro's main menu. Click on the Logo tab and click the Edit Logo button in the bottom left corner of the screen.

Extensive instructions are, as always, contained in the handy-dandy EventPro User Manual. See Chapter 1: Setting Up EventPro, Step 1: System Settings, Logo.

New Software Update Available (Version 6.11.2.706)

2010-07-26T08:57:00.000-06:00

If you are an EventPro client, the newest software update is now available. Log in to our Support Website and click on the Downloads tab. Click on the EventPro Install V6.11 (6.11.2.706) link to get the latest software.

Remember that you need an Upgrade Protection Plan (UPP) to access software updates. If you need to reinstate your UPP, please feel free to contact us for assistance.

Follow us on Twitter @eventproupdates to find out about the latest updates.

Event Accessories: From Fabric Stones to Napkin Ties

2010-07-23T08:57:00.000-06:00

I was browsing through ThisNext, and found some cool and/or funny event accessories I simply had to share:

Laser Cut Paper Cupcake Wrappers: Cupcakes now have nicer clothing than me.

Dress for Dinner Napkins: The tuxedo t-shirt's little brother.

Charlie Brown Pathetic Christmas Tree: Does everyone remember the sad little tree from the Charlie Brown Christmas special? Surely you must. These would make cute and nostalgic centerpieces for a holiday event.

Livingstones Lounge: So this isn't quite a party accessory, per se, but I think these would look really cool at a nature-themed event. Guest could lounge among the stones, sipping drinks. Okay, I'll admit it - I just want these for my living room.

Solar Sun Jars: These would be really beautiful at a rustic summer event. It looks like a jar full of glowing fireflies.

I am Not a Paper Cup: These are great little gifts for coffee lovers. They are eco-friendly and actually useful.

Question: How do I book multiple rooms for one event?

2010-07-21T12:03:00.003-06:00

If you want to create an event booking that uses multiple rooms, you don't have to create a separate booking for each event.

In the Booking Calendar, hold down the Ctrl key on your keyboard and click on each cell representing the day/location you want to include. You'll note that each selected cell has a cross-hatched pattern. When you have selected all the cells you want, right-click on any of the cross-hatched cells and choose New.

New Software Update Available (Version 6.11.2.705)

2010-07-20T13:41:00.001-06:00

If you are an EventPro client, the newest software update is now available. Log in to our Support Website and click on the Downloads tab. Click on the EventPro Install V6.11 (6.11.2.705) link to get the latest software.

Remember that you need an Upgrade Protection Plan (UPP) to access software updates. If you need to reinstate your UPP, please feel free to contact us for assistance.

Follow us on Twitter @eventproupdates to find out about the latest updates.

Aaaagggghhhh! I just deleted something really important!

2010-07-17T10:53:00.005-06:00

Have you said this before? Probably.

Like life in general, EventPro unfortunately does not have a giant "Go Back in Time" button. We really wish it did. However, there is a near equivalent...

Backing up your data.

If you don't already back up your data, start now. Today. You should backup your data at least once a day, or more, depending on how much information you enter in a day. Also, it's a good idea to create an extra backup every time you undergo a big process that will make a lot of changes. Then, if something goes awry (human error, virus, hard drive crash, etc.), you can simply go back and recover the pre-screw-up data. It's like going back in time and righting wrongs, but without something as cool as the Tardis.

EventPro doesn't have a built-in backup option because backup software is a specialized area and there are so many different products you can buy or get for free. We'll leave backup software to the backup experts.

There are expanded instructions on taking backups in the EventPro User Manual at Chapter 16: Utilities, Back Up EventPro Data.

Catering to Your Every Need - Using EventPro's Catering System

2010-07-15T09:36:00.006-06:00

If you use EventPro and you oversee catering at your venue, we hope that you are using EventPro's advanced Catering system. It's included with the EventPro Software package. Here is a quick walk-through of how the Catering System works:

EventPro's Catering system combines automated and flexible features. You can set up catering menus with defaults for cost, prices, items, quantities, whether to use event attendance, etc., so that one click pulls the complete menu into an event order. However, you can still change the defaults and add items on the fly to customize a menu on an event-by-event basis.
Pricing is also as set or as flexible as you need it to be. You can set costs and prices for individual items. If a menu item is a multi-serving dish, you can record the quantity per person. When you set up your menus, you can choose whether to price the catering per person, per item or a combination of both, and set a minimum margin so that you know you are getting the profit you want.
EventPro's catering is organized under four levels: Groups, Menus, Categories and Items. You can record as much or as little information as you need within these levels in whatever way best suits your business.
In an earlier blog post, we talked about Resource Packages. Note that you can combine your catering menus with other event requirements, like bar services and rental equipment, to create special event packages.

If you need help setting up your catering, there are extensive instructions in the EventPro User Manual at:

Chapter 1: Setting Up EventPro, Step 9: Resources, Catering Resource Items and Configurations (setting up your catering menus)
Chapter 3: Event Maintenance, Adding Resources (adding catering menus to event orders)

If you want extra help to get your catering system just right, consider buying a few hours of EventPro Training. An expert EventPro Trainer will walk you through every step of setup so that your catering system is perfectly suited to your business.

Tips for more efficient computer use

2010-07-14T14:58:00.005-06:00

We often complain about computers being soooo slooowww, but perhaps, sometimes, we are the problem? Are you using your computer as efficiently as you can?

If you want to find a way to work a bit more efficiently, check out blogger Ben Martin's six tips for increasing your computer productivity: "Get quicker and faster on your computer: My six productivity-boosting tips".

One of his tips is to have Dual Monitors - I fully agree! Once you have two monitors, you will never go back. In fact, one of our developers actually has four monitors! If you work in multiple programs and need to go back and forth between windows, it is so much more efficient to look across at another screen, instead of constantly minimizing and maximizing windows.

Do you have any computer productivity tips to share? Let us know via comments or email.

Food Trends 2010 - Predictions Coming True?

2010-07-12T09:33:00.006-06:00

What did you think would be the top food trends for 2010? Here is a sample of the many predictions that came out in late 2009 and early 2010:

Epicurious: Both its own predictions, Epicurious Predicts Top 10 Food Trends for 2010, and those of the Restaurant & Institution's Menu Trends for 2010.

Food Management: 10 Food Trends for 2010

The Food Channel: Announcing Our Top Ten Food Trends for 2010

Technomic: Technomic names 5 leading menu trends for 2010

National Restaurant Association: Chef's Survey: What's Hot in 2010

The Daily Beast: 10 Food Trends for 2010

Some common predictions for what people would want in 2010: Comfort Food, Sustainability, Local and Seasonal food (know your farmers), Back to Basics, and Gluten-Free.

So, now that 2010 is half over, how have these predictions panned out so far? Are people following the trends or sticking to their personal tastes from the past?

GrammarBot 9000: Programmed to Save Grammar

2010-07-09T14:03:00.008-06:00

In our promotional materials, we often talk about how professional the documents and reports look in EventPro. However, even the most awesome formatting in the world cannot save a document riddled with basic grammar errors.

So, to that end, I don the persona of GrammarBot 9000...sent from the distant future to seek out and destroy bad grammar before we have nothing left but emoticons. Can the written word be saved? Stay tuned...

Episode 1: Then and Than

Use "Than" for comparisons.

Example: Orange juice is better than apple juice.

Use "Then" for time.

Example: Book an event, and then add setup resources to each location.
Don't do this: We can plan a better event then anyone else in town!

Feel free to comment on GrammarBot 9000, particularly if you find grammar and spelling errors.

Special Deal for EventPro Clients - EPWeb Discount

2010-07-08T09:14:00.008-06:00

We don't want to bombard you with advertising on this blog, but we just have to quickly let you know about a great deal for our EventPro clients. If you buy EPWeb between now and August 17th, 2010, you can get 30% off its regular purchase price (Conditions apply - see the fine print below*).

What is EPWeb? To sum it up very briefly, EPWeb allows an unlimited number of users to interact with your venue online. Staff members can view the booking calendar, find an event, search for available space, book events, view event details, add catering and setup resources to an event, make payments, and add new contacts – all online. Potential clients can check out your facility on the web and request potential event bookings.

You can view a limited sample of EPWeb on our website. To get a more detailed tour of EPWeb's functionality, you can book a free, no-commitment online demo with a member of our Sales Team. Contact us at Sales@Eventpro.net or (306) 975-3737 (Press 1). Quote promotional code EPBA1008.

*Limited time offer. Offer expires August 17, 2010. Must quote Promo Code EPBA1008 to receive discount offer. This promotion only applies to current clients who have already purchased the software. It cannot be applied retroactively to previous purchases. It does not have cash value and cannot be combined with any other promotion or discount offer. No substitutions or transfer rights will be given.

July 2010 EventPro Connection Newsletter

2010-07-06T09:33:00.002-06:00

The latest issue of our quarterly newsletter, the EventPro Connection, is now available. If you didn't receive your copy by email, view it on our website HERE.

In this issue:
What's New? EventPro Blog and Twitter Updates
Limited Time Offer: 30% off EPWeb until Aug. 17
Feature in Focus: "Catering" to Your Every Need - EventPro's Catering System
Helpful Hint: How to Change Taxes
Important Notification: Certain Software Should be Updated Immediately
Software Update: Version 6.11.2.704
Support Notification: Microsoft Office 2010 64-bit Compatibility

To subscribe to the EventPro Connection, email us at Feedback@eventpro.net.

What's New? Create Booking from Enquiry

2010-07-05T07:47:00.011-06:00

We just talked about the Enquiries module a few days ago. We want to draw your attention to a very cool new feature that our Development team recently added to Enquiries.

You can now create a booking directly from an enquiry - very convenient! In the Enquiries screen, you'll see a new button: Create Booking. Choose the enquiry you want to turn into a booking and click the Create Booking button. You will jump directly into the Booking Wizard, with much of the information defaulting in from the Enquiry - dates, company/contact information, event name, event category, and so on.

If you have the Enquiries module, give it a try. If you don't see the new Create Booking button, make sure your software is updated to the most recent version.

You can find always find the newest stuff in several places:

EventPro User Manual: What's New in Help
EventPro Software: Click Help - What's New
Log into EventPro Support and click on What's New?

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-04T08:34:00.002-06:00

We hope our American neighbours are enjoying Independence Day, and are not actually stuck in front of a computer reading this blog post. (You can read it tomorrow).

Just three days ago, it was Canada Day, and we commented on some Canadian traditions. As a Canadian, though, I don't quite feel qualified to comment on Independence Day. What does a typical Independence Day entail - BBQ and fireworks? Parades? I've never been to a Fourth of July celebration, although I've read about them in the Little House on the Prairie books. Also, what is the appropriate greeting, "Happy 4th of July" or "Happy Independence Day?". Let us know.

Anyway, have a great day all you folks south of the border. See you Monday!

Track sales leads with Enquiries

2010-07-02T21:43:00.004-06:00

EventPro's Enquiries module is used to track potential business. Instead of creating a tentative booking every time a potential client asks about an event date, you can created a specialized "Enquiry", which can later be converted into an actual booking.

If you have the Enquiries Module, have you tried using it to track sales and marketing information? You'll note that each enquiry is categorized with an "Enquiry Source" and a "Status Code". You define your own Enquiry Sources and Status Codes, so you can use them to generate data of interest to your business.

For example, you can create Enquiry Sources like "Email Campaign", Website", "Word of Mouth", "Return Business", etc., using the results to determine what kind of marketing generates the most interest and the most successful leads. You can also create detailed Status Codes for Won and Lost leads, like "Won - Prices", "Won - Availability", "Lost - Prices", and "Lost - Other Venue". This data can help you determine the strong and weak selling points of your venue.

To learn how to set up Enquiries to track information and organize leads, see the EventPro User Manual at Chapter 8: Enquiries.

Printing labels, name tags, business cards and more

2010-07-01T14:14:00.006-06:00

EventPro's label templates allow you to print hundreds of personalized labels in one easy step. If you are viewing companies, contacts, attendees, exhibitors, or enquiries, click the Print button to the right of the selection grid and select "Labels" under Other Reports. In the Labels window, you can choose a template from the Label Selection drop-down. To print labels for events, use the Event Mail Merge under the File menu.

Besides the obvious use - mailing address labels - you can use label templates to print many other items: name badges, I.D. tags, business cards, table tent cards, envelopes, stickers, CD/DVD labels, file folder labels, post cards, gifts tags and more. If there isn't a pre-made template for the item you want to print, you can easily create a custom template. Do you have any other ideas for label template projects?

For detailed instructions on how to create and print labels, see the User Manual, at:

Chapter 12: Communications, Part C: Labels, Creating a Label Template
Chapter 12: Communications, Part A: Communications, Printing Labels and Envelopes.

Happy Canada Day!

2010-07-01T08:00:00.018-06:00

If you're Canadian, it's time to celebrate Canada Day! Fire up your BBQ and get out the fireworks (please check local regulations and be careful). Non-Canadians, I guess you can just carry on with your regular day, but feel free to raise a congratulatory glass for your friends across the border or across the world.

If for some cruel reason you are stuck in front of a computer on Canada Day, take a moment to test your Canadian knowledge with a quiz from the Montreal Gazette: Canada Day: Do You Know...?

Hey, it's your national holiday! Take a few more moments and wax nostalgic as you view these Canadian television gems:

The Canadian Heritage Minutes (If you are Canadian, you should recognize this quote: "Doctor, I smell burnt toast!")
Hinterland Who's Who (Does that warbly flute music still ring in your ears?).

At our office, we compiled a brief list of Canadianisms: maple syrup, Beachcombers, RCMP, "Eh", Toque (this is a "knitted hat", all you non-Canadians), hockey and hockey players with no teeth, beer, politeness and passiveness ("I was so mad, I almost wrote a letter"), the Log Driver's Waltz, beavers, Canadian geese.

What do you think when you think "Canada"?

HST Tomorrow - Are you ready?

2010-06-30T13:48:00.001-06:00

The HST is coming into effect tomorrow in Ontario and British Columbia. Have you adjusted your EventPro Software Taxes yet? If not, make sure you check out our EventPro Taxes post and contact the EventPro Support department if you need any help.

For an overview of what the new HST will mean for Ontario and B.C., read Shereen Dindar's neat little summary for the National Post: HST arriving tomorrow. Here is what you can expect in Ontario and B.C.

Changing Taxes in EventPro - Don't Just Edit!

2010-06-29T15:15:00.002-06:00

"In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes."
Benjamin Franklin

Amid a flurry of controversy, the HST is coming to British Columbia and Ontario. Whether you like it or lump it, it's coming, and you'll need to change your EventPro taxes (at least until the politicians change their minds again).

You will be tempted to simply go in and edit your existing taxes, but don't do this. There is a specific process you must follow. If you have any doubts, please contact the Support Department. Also, make a backup of your data (as you would with any major procedure), just in case the procedure doesn't turn out the way you want.

In order to assist with transitions to new cost/price/tax regimes, EventPro allows you to define several “Effective Dates”. An Effective Date is a date upon which a set of pre-defined costs, prices and taxes comes into effect.

In order to change your tax system, you will first create a new Effective Date under Taxes, in which you will define the new tax and rate (i.e. HST replacing the GST and PST). You will then create new Effective Dates for your Locations, Resources, Catering Configurations and Beverage Configurations, selecting where the new tax will be applicable. You will then want to update configurations with new catering/beverage prices and update events with new configuration and location prices. If you have already booked events that will occur after the Effective Date, you will also need to recalculate those events.

There are extensive instructions regarding Taxes and Effective Dates in the User Manual under Chapter 1: Setting Up EventPro:

Step 5: Taxes, Define and Adjust Taxes
Step 8: Locations, Creating Location Groups and Locations
Step 9: Resources

Effective Dates for Resources
Updating Events in Resources
Catering Resource Items and Configurations: Effective Dates for Catering Configurations
Beverage Resource Items and Configurations: Effective Dates for Beverage Configurations

New Software Update Available (Version 6.11.2.704)

2010-06-29T15:00:00.000-06:00

If you are an EventPro client, the newest software update is now available. Log in to our Support Website to download Version 6.11.2.704, which contains the latest fixes.

Remember that you need an Upgrade Protection Plan (UPP) to access software updates. If you need to reinstate your UPP, please feel free to contact us for assistance.

Follow us on Twitter @eventproupdates to find out about the latest updates ASAP.

Learn to use EPMobile - Event Management on the Go

2010-06-29T10:06:00.000-06:00

The User Manual has been updated with instructions on how to use EPMobile. Check out Chapter 18: EPMobile Module in the User Manual, on our website or using your Local Help in the Program.

EPMobile allows you to check booked events on the calendar, make booking requests, find events and search for available space from your mobile device. For more information about EPMobile, click HERE.

NewsBit: Stay Cool during Summer Weddings

2010-06-27T20:00:00.001-06:00

A wedding is a beautiful, special occasion, but all the activity surrounding it can make it a bit stressful, too. Brides can get, well, a little hot under the collar. With the busy summer wedding season coming up, make sure you keep things cool - literally! Otherwise, you could run into this unpleasant situation...

A couple is suing a Montreal hotel for ruining their wedding with failed air conditioning. See the full story at The Montreal Gazette: Couple sues hotel for $150,000, claiming faulty air conditioning ruined wedding reception.

Question: Can You Make a Location "Unavailable"?

2010-06-25T10:06:00.001-06:00

Yes, you can. Say that one of your rental spaces is going to be renovated for a different purpose and will no longer be available for events. A new feature in the current version of EventPro, 6.11.1.703, allows you to mark locations as "Available" (or unavailable) and set a future "Effective Date" at which the new availability comes into effect.

In the Location Setup area, create a New Effective Date (i.e. the date upon which the location will become unavailable). Edit the relevant location in that effective date and uncheck its "Available" checkbox. Now, when the effective date arrives, EventPro will mark the location as unavailable, but it won't be deleted from the program.

As with any major procedure, it's a good idea to take a backup before implementing a new effective date, just in case you do not like the result.

For more detailed instructions with screenshots, check the EventPro User Manual at Chapter 1: Setting Up EventPro, Step 8: Locations, Creating Location Groups and Locations.

NewsBit: Coffee - Not the Boost You Thought?

2010-06-25T08:21:00.001-06:00

A recent study found that coffee doesn't actullay make people more alert, but merely brings coffee-drinkers back up to a normal level. For the whole story, see Coffee 'does not make the brain more alert' at the Telegraph.co.uk.

So, does this convince you to give up your morning java? If you're like us - probably not! We'll wait for more confirming research before we give up our caffeine boost (real or perceived).

Question: How do I set the default font for emails?

2010-06-18T13:07:00.001-06:00

The default font for all rich text (including emails and Comments tabs), is set in your System Settings.

From EventPro's main menu along the top of the screen, click Setup and select System Settings. Go to the General tab. At the bottom, you'll see Rich Text Comments Default Font. Click the Select Font button to choose the font you want. When you're done with System Settings, don't forget to click Save.

EventPro at MPI World Education Conference

2010-06-18T09:18:00.002-06:00

If you are attending the MPI World Education Congress in Vancouver, July 24-27, stop by the EventPro Software booth at the Expo and have a chat with our reps, Chris Leib (a.k.a. C.J.) and Chris Dmytruk. We enjoy any opportunity to meet face-to-face with our clients and colleagues, so don't hesitate to drop in to say hello. We're at Booth 666 (yeah, weird, huh?).

MPI (Meeting Professionals International) is a community of more than 24,000 members in the meeting and event industry. For more information about MPI, see their website at MPIWeb.org.

For more information about the World Education Congress, check out the official website.

Question: How do I print an envelope?

2010-06-17T16:36:00.003-06:00

The Question section of our blog will answer real-life client questions gleaned from our own support cases. I have ventured down into the very bowels of our Support department and checked in with our Support experts for handy tips that we should pass on to everybody. Hopefully, you will find them useful - let us know!

So - how do you print an envelope with the address of a contact, company, attendee or exhibitor from your database? The easiest way is to use a label template.

If you haven't already created label templates, click Setup and select Label/Letter Templates in EventPro. You can create templates for either labels that you stick onto an envelope, or for the envelope itself.

It takes a little bit of time to get the template set up, but it will save you so much time later. When you go to print an envelope or label, all you have to do is select the appropriate template and hit "Print". EventPro will pull in the recipient's address information - no more typing by hand!

There are extensive, step-by-step instructions in the User Manual, so we won't repeat them here.

To make the initial template, go to Chapter 12: Communications, Part C: Labels, Creating a Label Template and Creating an Envelope Template.

When you are ready to print labels or envelopes, see Chapter 12: Communications, Part A: Communications, Printing Labels and Envelopes.

User Manual Updated - What's New?

2010-06-17T15:00:00.003-06:00

Our User Ma nual has been updated to include the latest new features of EventPro Software. In particular, check out how to use new "Effective Dates" for Locations. This new feature is particularly useful if you are expecting a change in applicable taxes (HST anyone?). Refer to the User Manual at Chapter 1: Setting Up EventPro, Step 8: Locations, Creating Location Groups and Locations.

FYI: Our User Manual is frequently updated with all major software updates and any minor software updates that contain new or enhanced features. We want our manual to be a complete and current source of information on how to get the most of EventPro.

New Software Update Available (6.11.1.703)

2010-06-17T12:30:00.001-06:00

If you are an EventPro client, the newest software update is now available. Log in to our Support Website to download Version 6.11.1.703, which contains new features and the latest hot fixes.

Remember that you need an Upgrade Protection Plan (UPP) to access software updates. If you need to reinstate your UPP, please feel free to contact us for assistance.

Follow us on Twitter @eventproupdates to find out about the latest updates ASAP.

Tip: Save Set Up Time with Resource Packages

2010-06-10T15:03:00.001-06:00

As promised, we will post handy tips for EventPro users on our blog - stuff that will help you get through your day a little more efficiently.

If you often host the same kind of events, and find yourself adding the same items to events over and over, you should try using Packages. Packages allow you to group together a set of commonly used resources so you can pull all of those items into an event at once.

For example, if clients often hold business meetings at your facility, you can create a special “Meeting” package, which could include tables, chairs, coffee service, hire of a setup crewperson, etc. You could set the number of chairs and coffee service to automatically adjust to the attendance of each event. You're not committed to the exact contents of the package every time you use it. You can add, subtract and edit specific items for an event if required.

You have several options for pricing the package: you can set a flat rate for the entire package, use a per-person charge, or you can simply use the prices of the individual items.

Try it out and see if it saves you some time. If you need a little extra help setting up packages, there are thorough instructions in the EventPro User Manual at Chapter 1: Setting Up EventPro, Step 9: Resources, Package Configuration.

Marking Your Social Media Territory

2010-06-10T06:00:00.001-06:00

So you have decided to get your company out into the social media network, but when you go to sign up on Facebook or Twitter or Blogger, you find out that somebody has already used your company name! To avoid this scenario, and to ensure that you have a consistent and effective online presence, some experts are suggesting that you reserve your business name on social media websites even if you don't plan to use the sites immediately. For example, Lisa Barone's first step to Creating Your Social Media Plan is "Secure Your Brand".

If you want to know whether someone has already snapped up your ideal user name, you can search for it on multiple social media sites using Namechk and Knowem. Knowem.com also offers a Premium Profile service: for a sum, they will register a complete profile - name, biography, photos, url and description - on 100, 150 or 300 social media websites, depending on the plan you choose.

On a related note, are you curious about what other people are saying about your company on social media websites? Eavesdrop at SocialMention, where you can do a real-time search or sign up for daily alerts.

Time to Redecorate? Get Color Inspirations.

2010-06-09T15:00:00.001-06:00

If you need some inspiration for your next decorating project, check out COLOURlovers.com, an online community where people share and discuss colors.

You can browse through thousands of colors, palettes, and patterns, or read up on the latest color trends in numerous articles. The site is divided up into several channels - Wedding, Home, Fashion, Web, Print and Craft - but you may want to take a look at all of them, regardless of your industry. There are so many beautiful color ideas that could work in many different areas.

If you are feeling particularly inspired, and want to share your ideas with others, you can even create your own color palette or pattern. It's fun to do, and a little bit addictive!

Get Updates ASAP on Twitter

2010-06-09T12:30:00.001-06:00

EventPro Software Updates are now on Twitter! If you want to keep your software updated with all of the latest new features and hot fixes as soon as they are available, follow us on Twitter @eventproupdates. We'll let you know when you can get the most recent update release.

Welcome to the EventPro blog!

2010-06-09T10:08:00.002-06:00

EventPro is a software solution for event management and facility scheduling. We are based in Canada, with branches in Australia and the United Kingdom. If you want to know more about us, check out our website.

The EventPro blog will to keep you up-to-date with the latest updates and tips from EventPro Software, but we don't want this blog to be all about us. We want the blog to feature information that is useful and interesting for all event managers.

Have something to say? We want to hear it! If you have a comment, suggestion, or story about event management, feel free to send it our way. Recommend a link, tell us a story, send us a photo - we want to hear from you.

If you are involved with event planning, check out our blog for our sister product, EventPro Planner.