HCSS, a leading developer of software for the construction industry, hosted its annual Users Group Meetings (UGM) with two identical meetings on January 30-February 1 and February 20-22, 2018, at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in Houston, Texas. Nearly 1500 users of HCSS estimating, construction time card and job reporting, dispatching, safety, equipment maintenance, telematics, and other software attended classes and networked with other users of HCSS products.

The meeting featured keynote addresses and more than 150 classes taught by HCSS staff, partners, and customers on topics ranging from best practices and tips for software implementation and application to marketing and executive thought leadership. Attendees also participated in Town Hall discussions where they provided feedback on new and existing features of the software.

“Our Users Group Meetings are the key to developing usable software for our customers,” says HCSS founder and CEO Mike Rydin. “Customers come here to learn more about how to use our software, tell us what is working well and what is not, and what we need to do to improve it. In addition, our employees learn a lot about the construction business and how customers actually use and benefit from our products in the field. I can’t imagine running a software company without this kind of massive feedback.”

The first HCSS UGM was held in 1990 with eight contractors attending. Since then, UGM sessions have continued to grow in attendance and importance, as attendees learn valuable information about the software that enables their businesses to be more efficient and successful. Additionally, attendees are the first to learn about new HCSS software features and products, like the new HCSS Plans digital plan management solution introduced at this year’s meeting.

“I always gain more knowledge about the programs and learn new tips and tricks,” said Craig Parker, executive vice president at Silver Star Construction in Moore, Okla., who has attended the UGM for 16 years. “Without any exception, I learn a new advanced technique that saves me or my staff time every time I attend UGM.”

Preparations have already begun for next year’s HCSS UGM. Two meetings will, once again, be held at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in Houston with dates of January 15-17 and February 5-7, 2019.