Members of the Focal Pointe team recently attended the Aspire Snow Summit, a virtual snow conference to discuss best practices, learn about new software functionalities, and network with other landcare professionals.
Attendees took part in live presentations, breakout sessions, round-table discussions, vendor interactions, and networking opportunities all via a virtual format. Some of the topics discussed included snow techniques and best practices, work ticket management, estimating, reporting, and new products and equipment.
Roundtable discussions were a highlight of the conference and included topics such as snow production backup planning, tips for managing subcontractors, seasonal contracts, and performing a “dry-run/practice storm.
For Elyse Harpstrite, Account Manager at Focal Pointe, one of the key conference takeaways was the ability to network with other companies virtually in a time of uncertainty due to the pandemic. All companies are currently facing limiting factors and added stressors, and it was extremely helpful to learn how they are preparing for the snow season during these difficult times. Companies from across the nation were able to video chat one-on-one or as a group to discuss concerns and get answers to valuable questions. It was a great summit and provided Focal Pointe with the perfect jump start to snow preparations.
Focal Pointe attendee John Combs said, “The Aspire Virtual Snow Summit was a great training opportunity. It was nice to have Aspire put the work in to make this happen virtually since we were not able to attend in person given the current circumstances. The keynotes were informative and engaging, the breakout sessions were filled with great information and tips, and everyone was very receptive to issues and questions. Aspire and all of the attendees did a great job helping each other out when a question came up that wasn’t able to be addressed immediately during the presentations.”
Operations Manager Matt Kalisiak added, “Attending a conference virtually amid these times of uncertainty proved to be valuable. The content was informative and being virtual allowed all of the speakers and attendees to stay safe and healthy.”
Despite changing course this year and moving to a virtual format, attendees embraced the conference motto of “Putting the Win in Winter” to exchange ideas, share best practices, and develop long-term resources with other Aspire users.