Blue skies, warm sands, and tropical surroundings were the Paradise Found backdrop for this year’s International ARCHIBUS Users’ Conference at the Marco Island Marriott Resort. The exotic locale added to the exuberant mood at the special dinner held for our Business Partners, shown here, where they became the satisfied customers.

The signal for a memorable kick-off social event came in loud and clear. That’s why the Users’ Conference opening reception was a dash of Margaritaville, a splash of savory hors d’oeuvres, and a tidal wave of conviviality as ARCHIBUS professionals noshed and networked into the night.

The bearded guy looks familiar. But you may not know Canadian keynoter Nick Bontis, the DeGroote School of Business’ only stand-up comic and Ph.D. Many thanks go to our other speakers and sponsors for their invaluable supporting roles. And congratulations to the South American winners of a beach soccer match against our North American players – maybe next year.

This year’s networking luncheon served up American and Caribbean-tinged fare…with a side order of business cards.

North Tower Beach was the picture-perfect setting for this year’s closing festivities: a spectacular ocean-front buffet, fast-paced award announcements, live music, and yet another (yawn) awesome sunset. To attendees, presenters, sponsors, and staff, many thanks for making this event the success that it was.