Our office environment is fully computerized (Windows XP Professional operating system) and networked and can be accessed easily by six rolling lines, an 800 line, a dedicated line answered in the name of Association, fax, e-mail via a T-1 line and multiple IP addresses. The entire computer system is backed up at the end of each workday, and the tapes are stored off-site when the office is closed. Each association's valuable historical records and tax returns are stored securely in a fireproof filing cabinet for further safeguarding.

Each of our full-time employees has a private office and computer workstation with open access to the Internet. In addition, the company has a copier, scanner, CD duplicator and laserjet color printer at the disposal of all employees. One computer workstation is dedicated to allowing employees to access the in-house network at times when they are away from the office. Laptop computers and portable printers are utilized by Executive Directors who are traveling. These are used, as well, to produce name badges while on-site at meetings and conferences. We have several LCD projectors and are rented out at a deeply discounted rate.

Our offices are staffed 45 hours weekly. Although there is voice mail service for off-hours, a staff member will answer all calls during regular business hours, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Eastern Time. Voice mail, of course, is a second option should the caller request. The fax machine is never turned off, and we can be reached by e-mail at any time. Key home telephone numbers are always available to association presidents in case of emergencies.

Our offices of 3,000 square feet are conveniently located in the Research Triangle Park, just 5 minutes from RDU International Airport. The offices are professional and comfortable, but not lavish. We do have a conference room, which we make available for committee meetings or small gatherings; it seats eight comfortably.

Through our involvement in AENC, the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), International Association for Exposition Management (IAEM), Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and the AMC Institute (formerly International Association of Association Management Companies (IAAMC)), we stay current on political and societal changes with possible effects on associations.