President's Quarterly Note: Membership Matters

Membership Matters

I don’t have to tell anyone about the current state of the market. We have all been touched by the economic downturn that some days seems like it will never end. In these times, everyone is watching every penny they spend and reevaluating where they spend and invest their money. One easy target is professional organization memberships.

Rather than pay for a membership, it may seem tempting to save the money and just attend events as a non-member. I confess that there are organizations where I do just that. The value of membership is something that we all try to quantify and determine whether it’s worth it.

So, why does SMPS membership matter?

First, the strength of the organization is in its membership. In 2001, we split off from a joint chapter with San Antonio and created the Austin Chapter with only 16 members. It was a struggle at first. But as our membership grew, our volunteer base grew, and so did our collective knowledge, talents, insights, and skills. Our programs improved and became more sophisticated. Our reputation developed as the leading organization for A/E/C marketers and business developers. We started attracting more important decision makers to speak at our events to give us insights to help us in our business. In a nutshell, the quality of our chapter improved as a result of our increased membership numbers.

I know that there are a lot of people out there that get this notion already but I’d like to invite the non-members to give this some thought. Ask yourself, has SMPS had a positive impact on my career in some way? A program? An insight? A project lead? A connection? A friendship? And then ask yourself, would this have been likely back in 2001 when there were 16 members?

This is the power of membership: we are only as strong as our membership base. And if you believe in an organization and its value, membership is the best way to support that cause and ensure the strength of the chapter.

We have a strong group of members that do a great job in putting together programs, seeking out sponsorships to help us raise our game, running the organization, and communicating with our members through our website, Twitter, LinkedIn page, and even this newsletter.

If you have not joined SMPS yet, I hope you will consider what it means to our organization, your industry peers, and, most importantly, to you and your company, and decide that it is a worthwhile investment in your future and in the future of our A/E/C community.

Erika Passailaigue, CPSM
Datum Engineers

SMPS WEBINAR: Beyond Proposals: Marketing Practices that Pay Off in a Down Market

Join the Austin SMPS chapter for a webinar that will help focus marketing resources on efforts that will win work and increase the bottom line in today’s challenging economic climate. Learn 10 Best Practices for Effective Proposal Development and 10 Profitable Marketing Practices that you can take back and apply to your firm today!

In a down market, it is a common reaction to increase the number of RFPs/RFQs the marketing department responds to without assessing the true costs. Is it really worth it for your firm to pursue every job? During this 90-minute Webinar, learn why it’s important to avoid a “shotgun approach” to proposals in terms of what it means for the success of your firm. Gain invaluable tools and resources to effectively manage and maximize your marketing resources during an economic downturn, including 10 Best Practices for Effective Proposal Development and 10 Profitable Marketing Practices. Come away from this Webinar armed with valuable insight, including:

• Proposals That Make a Point—10 Best Practices in Effective Proposal Development
• Proposals to Push Aside—Go/No Go RFQ/RFP from an Economic Perspective—what does it cost to go after a project with low chances for winning? How do you assess the projects to “No Go?”
• Profitable Practices Firms Forget to Value—Top 10 Marketing Practices (other than proposals) that contribute to the firm’s bottom line in a down market. Learn the real statistics about the measurement of their effectiveness and profitability.

 Learning Objectives

• Gain a clear understanding of best practices that make the most impact from an owner’s perspective.
• Learn to calculate the cost to pursue and develop an RFP/RFQ; understand the costs and benefits of preselling a project.
• Discover which marketing activities can have the most value and impact on a firm; gain knowledge of best practices to maximize their value and impact in a down market.

ONLINE REGISTRATION CLOSES MONDAY NOV 28, 2011 AT 11:59PM

CEU Credits
SMPS webinars are approved for 1.5 hours of Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM) CEUs and AIA LU Hours. Recordings of SMPS webinars are approved for 1.5 hours of CPSM hours only.

When: Thursday, December 01, 201111:30 AM - 1:30 PM

 

Where: DPR Construction, Inc.
9606 North Mopac, Suite 300, Austin, TX 78759

 

Event Registration Fee:
Member: Complimentary
Non-Member: $35.00

 

RSVP Monday, November 28, 2011

SMPS Holiday Networking Lunch featuring our Communications Awards Presentation

Come celebrate the holidays with the SMPS Austin Chapter at our second annual holiday networking event. Along with extended networking time over a delicious lunch, we will be presenting our chapter’s Communications Awards. Come view our chapter’s impressive entries, thank our jurors, and congratulate the winners.

This event is complimentary for members that register before Dec. 9th! (fee applies after Dec. 9th)

Seating is limited, so sign up today!!

If you are unable to attend after registering please make sure to cancel your registration through Cvent or contact Elizabeth Haynie at elizabethhaynie@beckgroup.com.

Please note that the event dinning room is stair access only.

Parking: The restaurant has a surface lot. If the lot is full there is street parking and a city garage at the southeast intersection of 5th and Red River.

When: Thursday, December 15, 2011 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Where: Carmelo’s Restaurant
504 East 5th Street, Austin, TX 78701

Event Fee:
Member: Complimentary ($35.00 original price)
Non-Member: $35.00 for a limited time ($45.00 original price)

RSVP Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Project Spotlight: Mobile LiDAR for East Sixth Streescape Improvements

Mobile LiDAR for East Sixth Streetscape Improvements

The City of Austin was in the preliminary design phase of streetscape improvements for East Sixth in Downtown Austin, beginning at Congress Avenue and extending to I-35. Project goals included widening sidewalk and related pedestrian facilities, roadway paving, and enhancing other transportation related features for this busy downtown area, in keeping with the Great Streets Program design plan. It was crucial to the City’s planning staff that they have detailed and accurate information of all visible ground street features.

Surveying And Mapping, Inc. (SAM, Inc.) was contacted by the City of Austin to perform a design survey of the East Sixth Street project area, including side streets that extend one block north and one block south of Congress along San Jacinto, Trinity, Neches, Red River and Sabine Streets.

Mobile LiDAR technology is ideal for projects like this that require an extraordinary level of detail, such as streetscape design. This mobile laser scanning technology incorporates the most advanced LiDAR sensors, cameras and position/ navigation equipment to collect survey-quality point data quickly and accurately. SAM, Inc.’s mobile LiDAR vehicle arrived at the project site at dawn and in less than four hours the data acquisition was complete. Using mobile LiDAR technology, the City received the survey-grade data they needed in a fraction of the time it would have taken conventional surveying methods. Using this technology also increased safety for project personnel and the general public because data was collected remotely in early morning hours, eliminating the need for traffic diversion required by traditional surveying activities.

Topographic survey information was extracted from the robust point cloud, combined with tree identification from Baer Engineering, and delivered in Autodesk Civil 3D using the City of Austin’s ESD CADD Standards, drawn on the appropriate level and in the format required by the City. This allowed the data to be seamlessly integrated into the preliminary engineering design efforts for the City. Additionally, the detailed data set can be used for 3D visualization and modeling and other project needs without additional mobilization costs.

Owner
City of Austin

Land Surveyor
Surveying And Mapping, Inc. (SAM, Inc.)

Subconsultant for Survey Control
Unintech Consulting Engineers, Inc.

Tree Identification
Baer Engineering and Environmental Consulting, Inc.

SMPS Austin 2012 Mentoring Program

The SMPS Austin Chapter is kicking off the 2012 Mentoring Program. Our 2011 program was a big success and we are making some additions which should make the 2012 program even better! Although this is a Members Only opportunity, it’s not too late to join SMPS and participate in this program.

Junior members (protégés) will be paired with experienced A/E/C marketers (mentors) from non-competing firms to learn more about marketing and business development. Once matched mentors and protégés typically meet once a month to cover a series of topics individually determined by the pair. This year we also anticipate offering:

• “Finding your Strengths” testing (for Mentors and Protégé’s); including a complimentary copy of “The Strengths Finder 2.0” book.
• Suggested A/E/C activities the Mentors and Protégé’s can attend together (i.e. site visits, pre-bid meetings, various association meetings, etc.);
• Two meetings where all mentors and protégé’s can interact and learn from each other’s experiences;
• A mid-year speaker discussing topics which may include leadership, networking, professional effectiveness, career development, etc.
• Final program graduation lunch.

In general, mentors will have more than 10 years experience in the A/E/C industry while protégés will be asked to have a minimum of 2 years experience (to reduce participation from those temporarily working in the industry).

Cost to become a protégé is $120. There is no cost to become a mentor.

This is an exciting opportunity for our more junior members to develop their skills through the insights and knowledge of our more experienced members.

If you are interested in participating in the 2012 mentoring program as a mentor or a protégé, or if you have any questions about the program, please contact Karen Ward at 512-442-1122 / klward@terracon.com by Monday, November 14th.

SMPS Mix & Learn - The Art & Science of Intentional Networking

If you’re like most of us, you spend a lot of time networking. And while networking is an excellent way to make connections, strengthen relationships, and cultivate referrals, it can also eat up your precious time and funds. What if you could fix that forever? Join us as Patti DeNucci, author of The Intentional Networker: Attracting Powerful Relationships, Referrals & Results in Business, shares tips, best practices, secrets, and stories that will help you generate better results and a higher return on your networking efforts.

Attend this event and discover:

• Where rewarding relationships and referrals really begin
• A math formula that simplifies where you should put your efforts
• Ideas for staying in touch with prospects and clients
• Numerous techniques and mindsets that can help boost networking success

Patti DeNucci is an award-winning writer, business leader, speaker, consultant, and business networking and referral expert with a background in marketing communications, advertising, and PR. Her new book, The Intentional Networker: Attracting Powerful Relationships, Referrals & Results in Business (www.IntentionalNetworker.com) was just released this fall and is already receiving excellent reviews, including 4 Stars and a “strongly recommended” rating from Midwest Book Reviews. Patti also owns DeNucci & Co. LLC (www.DeNucciandCompany.com) a firm that skillfully connects top notch freelancers and consultants to the clients who need their expertise.

During more than 20 years as a business owner, Patti has worked with and promoted more than 1,000 companies, organizations, and individuals, helping them generate millions of dollars in revenue. She has attended, facilitated, and presented at thousands of networking and business events. When she isn’t making and attracting spot-on referrals or networking with intention, Patti is teaching others how to do the same via her writing, speaking, coaching, and consulting.

When: Tuesday, November 15, 2011 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Where: III Forks Austin - Governor's Room
111 Lavaca Street, (corner of Lavaca and Cesar Chavez), Austin, TX 78701

Event Registration Fee:
Member: $20.00
Non-Member: $35.00

RSVP by Friday, November 11th

November Luncheon:The Private Future of Central Texas

Private residential and commercial development was hit hard in the recent economic downturn but the second half of 2011 has shown signs of growth with 2012 promising a better outlook. This month, we’ll sit down with master developer Shaun Cranston of Brookfield Residential Properties and President / CEO of the Greater San Marcos Partnership, Amy Madison to talk about the current atmosphere for private development, what cities are doing to court projects and stimulate growth, and what opportunities are on the horizon for Central Texas.

Speakers:
Shaun Cranston, PE
Vice President, Austin for Brookfield Residential Properties Inc.
Shaun Cranston is responsible for overall operations of Brookfield Residential Properties (formerly Carma) Texas market. Since joining Brookfield Residential in 1998, Shaun has been involved in a variety of roles within the Corporation, ultimately moving to Austin Texas in 2004 to start up operations in the Texas market.

Currently, Shaun provides oversight and direction for three Texas communities, responsible for all aspects of the land development process from initial acquisition, through the entitlement and construction processes, and ultimately leading to the marketing and final sales of assets.

Amy Madison
President / CEO, Greater San Marcos Partnership
Amy Case Madison is President & CEO of the Greater San Marcos Partnership, a public-private partnership focused on economic growth in Hays-Caldwell Counties. She also oversees Economic Development for the City of San Marcos as executive director for the Economic Development San Marcos Board, a 13- member city-appointed board charged with incentive review.

In the four years at San Marcos, Amy has raised $150,000 for an economic development strategy, assisted with a $90M HEB Distribution expansion creating 320 jobs, recruited Grifols, Inc., a $76M biomedical facility creating 190 jobs, and steered a $4M campaign to fund an economic development strategic plan that became the foundation for the current GSMP. Most recently, she was elected to the Texas Economic Development Council Board, the first representative from the Hays-Caldwell County area to serve in this capacity

When: Tuesday, November 08, 2011 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Where: University of Texas Club - President's Room
2108 E. Robert Dedman Drive, Austin, TX 78712

Attire: Business

Event Registration Fee:
Member: $35.00 for a limited time ($45.00 original price)
Non-Member: $45.00 for a limited time ($55.00 original price)

RSVP Monday, November 07, 2011

Resource Review: Prezi Presentations

Are you tired of cranking out the same old Powerpoint presentations? Do you need a creative format to present your firm’s qualifications? You might be in the market for Prezi, an application that lets you create zooming, free-flowing presentations.

Prezi presentations move away from the flat, linear slides of Powerpoint and allow you to design a package that is flexible, yet clean and professional. Prezi can be used directly from an internet browser without the need to install anything. This subscription option is free, but allows others to view your Prezi creations. A paid subscription option allows Prezi Desktop to be installed on your computer, so you can access it without an internet connection. This option also allows your custom Prezis to be private.

What are some instances when we as marketers might utilize Prezi?

• Interview presentations
• Digital brochures
• Image libraries
• Personal portfolio

The Prezi website, http://www.prezi.com/, is your best source for getting started with the application, and features a plethora of information on Prezi’s features and options. As a new Prezi designer, visit the site and browse the thousands of already created Prezis that are at your fingertips.

Before embarking on your own Prezi creation, the tips below can help you get organized:

Sketch
Storyboard by hand the concept that you want to present. Whether it be interview content, or a firm brochure on a specific type of project, organize your ideas on paper first. Since Prezi moves away from the linear nature of Powerpoint, be creative in how you want ideas to flow. Because of Prezi’s zooming feature, ideas can really build on one another and don’t have to spread across your workspace.

Images & Video
Prezi allows you to import images at a small file size (2880x2880) and video at a maximum of 50MB. Select what images and/or video you want to include before getting started. Place all of your Prezi-ready files in one folder for fast uploading.

Color
Prezi has fairly limited custom-color options for fonts and shapes. Decide what color family you want to incorporate before getting started and set up your selections as one of your first steps. Prezi has the option for further customization through Cascading Style Sheets (CSS).

Once you’ve finished your Prezi, you can present it in several ways:

• Present “live” with an internet connection
• Export to Prezi Desktop, which does not require an internet connection
• Download a portable Prezi – creates an exported/downloaded version of your prezi presentation, which works without internet access, without a prezi account, and without Prezi Desktop. You can use it to present where you don't have access to the internet, or send to an external audience. The link generated contains a non-editable version of your prezi, and player software for Windows and Mac.
• Download the Prezi app for iPad and take your Prezis on the go

Good luck and be sure to visit http://www.prezi.com/ for inspiration and help getting started!

Erin Bettison, CPSM, LEED GA
Sr. Marketing Coordinator
Austin Commercial

Susan Savkov
Marketing Manager
STG Design

Photos from the 2011 SMPS Kickoff Party

View photos from the 2011 SMPS Kickoff Party on October 6th at Star Bar. We had a great turnout of current and potential members.  Thanks to everyone that attended. 

SMPS Lunch and Learn AND One-on-One SF330 Review Sessions

Lunch and Learn: Optimize Your Next SF330 Submittal

Learn how to view your SF330 submittal with a new perspective and differentiate your team from many competitors. Demonstrate your strength thru team organization and tailored resumes. Prove your experience with focused project descriptions. Understand how to tie it all together and close the deal in Section H. Nancy Usrey, Author of the Insider’s Guide to SF330 Preparation, will share tips from her review of many SF330 packages from teams large and small. Come prepared to ask questions!

One-on-One SF330 Review Sessions

As an added feature to this special Lunch and Learn, our expert speaker Nancy Usrey has agreed to offer a limited number of one-on-one thirty minute sessions to review and analyze your SF330, making recommendations for improvement and suggestions for winning more work! Five 30 minutes sessions are available for purchase at $50.

About the Speaker

Nancy Usrey (pronounced er’-sree) a recognized national expert on federal procurement and the marketing of A/E services, brings more than three decades of knowledge and experience to the topic, acquired through real-world experience both inside A/E/P firms and as a marketing consultant to the A/E design industry. She currently helps design-build and mega-project pursuit teams develop and implement successful positioning strategies and proposal plans. Nancy is the author of ZweigWhite's publication Insider's Guide to SF330 Preparation, and the precursor Insider's Guide to SF254/255 Preparation. Nancy is a Fellow of SMPS from the Dallas Chapter, and also writes, speaks, coaches, and consults on marketing and management issues faced by A/E/P and construction firms.

REGISTRATION CLOSES MONDAY OCTOBER 24th

When: Thursday, October 27, 2011 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM

Where: DPR Construction, Inc.
9606 North Mopac, Suite 300, Austin, TX 78759

Event Registration Fee
Member $20.00
Non-Member $35.00

RSVP Monday, October 24, 2011

Blogging Basics

There is a laundry list of issues that need to be addressed when it comes to improving corporate blogs, but here we’ve narrowed down the key elements that companies should focus on. Here are 10 tips for corporate bloggers hoping to make a positive splash in their communities.

 1. Establish a Content Theme and Editorial Guidelines

When creating a product or service, you must be able to define the value that it’s bringing to consumers. In the case of a blog, you need to clearly define the focused theme that your team will follow. Choose a blog name and theme that fits well with your company’s expertise, but don’t be afraid to branch out into a larger space. Your blog should provide pertinent information for consumers interested in your area of business.

Once you’ve chosen an area to cover, create a set of editorial guidelines that your bloggers will follow. Guidelines can include appropriate verticals and topics to cover, as well as how and when posts should be written.

A clear goal and theme for your blog will make it easier for users to know what to expect.

2. Choose a Blogging Team and Process

Choose a team of core bloggers to begin your blogging adventure. Select individuals that are knowledgeable and comfortable writing about the areas you would like to cover. Also, it’s key to choose people who write well and have a great online presence.

Train your bloggers on the editorial guidelines and decide what type of writing and editing process you would like to put in place. Some companies prefer to elect an editor or group of editors to have a final look at all blog posts, while other companies allow their bloggers to publish directly. Figure out the level of comfort you have with your blogging, editing and publishing process and implement a procedure that works well for your team. 

3. Humanize Your Company

A company blog is an opportune place to let down your hair and get to know your customers. Think of it as a conversation between people, not between a brand and one person. In order to have a conversation, you need two people — a blogger and a reader.

Always keep in mind that your blog is about people connecting and conversing with people, not a corporation. Throw away that “corporate” concept, and you’ll be ahead of most. 

4. Avoid PR and Marketing

If maintained correctly, your blog will act as a repository of real analysis and opinions provided by your company’s fine employees. The type of insight and expertise that a blog can demonstrate is far more useful than any PR pitch that you could post. Stay away from trying to sell your readers. There are appropriate venues for that, and your blog shouldn’t be one of them.

Lululemon Athletica, a yoga-inspired athletic apparel company, constantly adds value to its community through its blog by providing posts on topics that their core followers would appreciate. Some of the most recent posts were on how to do a handstand, protect the lower back, and explore a new city.

Readers will get a taste of the massive knowledge bank available at your company. Take your mind off of marketing, and you’ll find that the analysis that you provide sells your company better than a press release ever could. 

5. Welcome Criticism

Oftentimes, corporations shy away from opening up their websites and blogs for commenting and interaction, because they are afraid of the harm that criticisms may cause. Make it a policy to welcome criticism, thinking of it as an opportunity for feedback and improvement. There are lots of ways to deal with negative feedback, so don’t be afraid to open up to your community. 

6. Outline a Comment Policy

Be aware that if you open up your blog for full feedback (which you should), you will get a variety of comments — constructive, complimentary, hateful, and spam. Be prepared for everything. Create a comment policy that your team can follow, and make sure everyone is on same page. Outline the types of comments that should be responded to, deleted or passed along for follow-up. 

7. Get Social

Make sure your blog is open for comments and utilizes share tools, such as Facebook, Twitter and Digg. Share tools allow your users to pass along your content. Why not allow your readers to promote your work?

Put forth an effort to respond to comments or forward them on when a specific employee could offer the best expertise in that area. Make sure each employee maintains a personable tone when responding to comments, so that readers know that your bloggers are genuine.

Lastly, if you haven’t done so already, implement a social media strategy for your blog, creating the appropriate profiles across social networks that your readers and customers are active on. Usually, Facebook and Twitter are a good start, and YouTube is a must for video-sharing. When you post on your blog, announce the new post on your social networks and ask for your readers’ opinions on the subject.

Promote your social presence on your blog, by implementing links, buttons and widgets that link to your social profiles. This will enable readers to stay connected with you across platforms. Whole Foods’ blog, Whole Story, for example, displays its social links prominently at the top of the blog. 

8. Promote Your Blog

Just as you would promote any other company initiative, get the word out about your blog. Share the URL on your website, social networks, business cards, e-mails, and advertisements.

Without promotion, building an audience can be difficult. Get behind the quality work that your team is putting into the blog and promote away. 

9. Monitor Mentions and Feedback

One way to get a pulse on your blog and its effects on the community is to monitor mentions and feedback. Set up Google Alerts for your brand, blog name and any keywords that might be relevant. Search on Technoratiand Twitter for those set terms.

To make things easier with Twitter, set up custom search columns in a Twitter client, such as Hootsuite, Tweetdeck or CoTweet. The columns will update in real time, keeping you up-to-date on brand and blog mentions at all times.

Getting more sophisticated, you should look into social media brand management tools, such as Radian6, for monitoring keywords across social sites.

10. Track Everything

You’re probably accustomed to tracking everything, and your blog is no different. If your blog is a page on your website, make sure your current web analytics tools are set to track all the same data that it monitors on your website. If you don’t currently have a web analytics tool, check out Google Analytics, a free analytics tool with an easy-to-use interface.  At the minimum, make sure you’re tracking site traffic, where referrals are coming from, and traffic-wise which posts are doing best. Learn from the data and adjust your blogging guidelines accordingly.

 Adapted from “10 Tips for Corporate Blogging” by Erica Swallow, Mashable

Call fo Entries: 2011 SMPS Austin Communications Awards

Top 5 Power Happy Hour Spots!

Like our Power Lunches, the Power Happy Hour is about finding a great spot to meet a client or potential client to have a couple of drinks, some eats and good networking conversation.

Hangar Lounge **** 
Great Roof Deck Patio
308 Colorado Street, Austin, Texas 78701 • (512) 474-4264 http://www.thehangarlounge.com/

Hangar Lounge is the newest edition to the 4th Street Warehouse District and is has the best roof deck in downtown. The roof deck is three stories up, has great views and you can usually catch a good breeze. Being designed by Austin and 4th Street’s own Dick Clark Architecture, you know the aesthetic is amazingly designed and creates a great ambiance with the 1950s airport lounge feel.

Ambiance: Casual setting; best for happy hour with and established client
Happy Hour Pricing: $4 wines, $2.50 beers and $3.50 well drinks
Parking: Mildly Difficult; meter parking, paid lots and valet
Area of Austin: Downtown

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NoRTH *****
Fantastic Indoor/Outdoor Patio Seating
11506 Century Oaks, Suite 124, Austin, TX 78758
(512) 339-4400 • www.foxrc.com/north/html

Taking its cue from an Italian trattoria, NoRTH offers a contemporary approach to Modern Italian Cuisine. North has an urban feel, with sleek interiors and calm, relaxed atmosphere. The drinks are carefully done and the wine list has something for every level of wine drinker. Their happy hour menu includes a tasty array of small plates and pizzas but won’t spoil your dinner.

Ambiance: Slightly upscale setting; good for new clients and established relationships
Happy Hour Pricing: Apps from $3 to $6; $2.50 bottle beer and $4 well drinks
Parking: Easy; lots of garage parking and surface lots
Area of Austin: North Austin

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Red’s Porch ****
Great Sports Bar
3508 S. Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704 • (512) 440-7337 http://www.redsporch.com/

Red’s Porch is a self-proclaimed “sports bar and neighborhood dining establishment” which fits it perfectly. They have outside and indoor seating, darts to keep you entertained if your team is throwing away the game, and an impressive beer selection. Their menu also offers a variety of foods to suit everyone's tastes: Cajun, Tex-Mex, Southern and American cuisine choices. The bar was designed very well to keep people flowing and give you space for more serious after work happy hour discussions…granted, it depends on who is playing because at Red’s, you can watch everything from cricket to football.

Ambiance: Casual setting; good for sports enthusiast and established clients
Happy Hour Pricing: $2.00 Lone Star Pints, $3.25 RED’S Frozen Ritas, $6.00 House Texican Martinis, $3.00 Well Drinks, $2.00 Haams 16 oz cans, Texas Draft Specials - $1 Off select Texas Draft Beers
Parking: Fairly Easy; surface lot parking but will fill up during important sporting events
Area of Austin: South Austin

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Moonshine ***** 
Great Outdoor Patio Seating; Unique Restaurant
303 Red River Street, Austin, TX 78701(512) • 236-9599
http://www.moonshinegrill.com/

Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill takes you back to a simpler time. Comfortable and familiar, relaxed and easygoing, Moonshine greets guests like family. Their menu is enticing so if happy hour might turn into dinner, this is the place to go. Happy Hour is early, from 3:30p to 6:30p but worth the time away from the office as it tends to be less crowded and there is plenty of room to present marketing brochures and materials.

Ambiance: Upscale setting; good for new clients and established relationships
Happy Hour Pricing: Half-priced apps; $4 select wines and cocktails
Parking: Easy during happy hour; street parking, valet and easy access to the COA public garage
Area of Austin: Downtown

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Bar Congress ****1/2 
Impressive Ambiance
200 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701 • (512) 827-2760 http://www.congressaustin.com/

Bar Congress, located in between Congress and Second Bar + Kitchen, is a sophisticated artisan cocktail lounge and premium wine bar featuring a vast array of superior spirits and exclusive wines available by the glass. Their bartender is considered an expert cocktail craftsman, which he is. You will be impressed with any drink you order but do venture beyond your normal vodka/soda; the drinks are what make this place. They have a fabulous appetizer menu with unique eats such as chicken fried olives and beef short rib croquettes. Although the area is small, I have never felt overwhelmed by a crowd. The setting is better for conversation so leave the marketing materials at the office.

Ambiance: Upscale and impressive setting; good for new clients and established relationships
Happy Hour Pricing: Normal pricing
Parking: Mildly Difficult; meter parking, paid lots and valet
Area of Austin: Downtown

Resource Review: Dropbox

Dropbox
File storage and transfer service
http://www.dropbox.com/

Have you ever:

• Been frustrated by your firm’s flaky FTP site? 
• Spent hours waiting for your files to upload, only to receive a failure message? 
• Had to apologize to clients or partner firms for your FTP site’s lack of reliability? 
• Lost all of your files on your home computer when your personal hard drive crashed?

It seems almost every firm has a sob story about their FTP site. Many of us have also experienced the devastating loss of personal data when a home computer crashes. Dropbox, an online file storage and transfer service, is working to change that.

Dropbox does all of the things you need your FTP site to do – and more. In addition to providing a secure environment in which to store and transfer files, Dropbox offers an incredibly user-friendly interface and the ability to access your information from any device – even your mobile phone. Once you create your account, you can access your files either by logging into the Dropbox website or by accessing the desktop or mobile application. You can download this application to an unlimited number of devices – your work computer, home computer, iPhone/iPad/Android/Blackberry, etc. Uploaded files are automatically synced throughout all of your installed devices, so your files are available virtually anywhere and anytime you want them.

Dropbox allows you to create an unlimited number of folders to organize your data. By default, all of your folders can only be accessed by you. However, you may choose to share a folder with a friend, a group of friends – or perhaps a project team – so that all invited members can access the files. Just like your private folders, changes to your shared folders are reflected immediately. So regardless of when or where you are accessing Dropbox, you know that the files you are working with are the most current. Also, Dropbox keeps a one-month history of your work, so changes can be undone and files can be undeleted, if necessary.

The standard free account comes with 2GB of storage, and different pricing options are available starting at about $10/month for 50GB. Dropbox can also customize a pricing plan with shared quotas – a feature designed for teams sharing large amounts of information above 100GB.

Whether you are interested in sharing photos with family and friends, collaborating with a volunteer organization, or managing a large project team, Dropbox’s flexibility, reliability, and elegant user interface make it a valuable and affordable option for storing and transferring files.

Katie Harris, LEED AP
Encotech Engineering Consultants

October Luncheon: Strategies for Winning Federal Work

Despite the recent focus on limiting spending, there are still opportunities to win work with the federal government. This month, we will hear from experts in the field of federal procurement on the most lucrative up-and-coming opportunities in Central Texas and how to position your firm to win this work. In addition we will learn GSA’s expectations of its A/E/C partners, how to identify and connect with our region’s federal decision makers, how special designations such as small business set-asides affect the award process, and how alternative project delivery methods can make or break a project.

Speakers:
Scott Armey, Principal, The Armey Group, LLP
Scott brings over 17 years experience serving as a County Judge and Commissioner and in President George W. Bush’s Administration.

Tye Sheets Pierpont
Tye served as the Senior Advisor to the Regional Administration for the US General Services Administration (GSA) under President George W. Bush.

THE DISCOUNTED PRICE ENDS AFTER WEDNESDAY, October 5th!!

When: Tuesday, October 11, 2011 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Where: University of Texas Club - President's Room
2108 E. Robert Dedman Drive, Austin, TX 78712

Attire: Business Attire

Event Registration Fee:
Member: $35.00 for a limited time ($45.00 original price)
Non-Member: $45.00 for a limited time ($55.00 original price)

RSVP Monday, October 10, 2011

SMPS Austin Chapter Kick-off Celebration

Please join us for the annual SMPS Austin Chapter Kick-off Celebration. This is a chance to mingle with members of the A/E/C industry, meet the new SMPS board and learn about ways to become more involved with SMPS. There will be prize drawings, including one for members that bring non-members as their guests, and complimentary food and drink. So, grab your friends and associates and come celebrate with us! We look forward to seeing you there.

Prize Drawings
1 for all SMPS members in attendance
1 for all SMPS members who bring a non-member guest (one entry for each non-member guest)

Membership Promotion
Any non-member who attends and joins the SMPS Austin Chapter by October 15th will receive $25 Chuy's gift certificate.

When: Thursday, October 06, 2011 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Where: Star Bar
600 West Sixth Street, Austin, TX 78701

Event Registration Fee:
Member: Complimentary
Non-Member: Complimentary

RSVP Thursday, October 06, 2011

SMPS Austin Year in Review: 2010-2011

SMPS Austin is proud of our success over the past year.  Here is a summary of our progress and achievements during the 2010-2011 term.

Firsts

• Communications Awards Program
• Mentoring Program
• Golf 101
• Submitted for the Striving for Excellence Awards program

Sponsorship

• Revamped sponsorship structure with addition of Platinum and Annual Educational Sponsorship Levels which brought in $8500 of revenue.
• Several lunches with high luncheon sponsorships. June’s Capitol Complex Vision and Plans had $1250 in luncheon sponsorship, November’s Legislative Preview had $1000 and March’s ACC’s Facilities Plan brought in $750 in sponsorship dollars.  Our joint luncheon brought in $2360.
• Sponsorships this year have been crucial to our success in the down economy

Treasurer

• Started taking registrations at the door 
• Had a very successful collections drive for past due invoices

Programs

• Luncheons continued to have high attendance and high quality programming
• Increased the number of educational offerings
• Successful “Legislative Recap” event
• Increase the frequency of our informal happy hours
• Worked with National on workshop that they brought to Austin
• Worked with National President to bring best rated lunch and learn of the year to Austin – Getting off the Short list
• Worked with SA on successful joint luncheon.
• Successful Golf 101 event and Tour
• Successful program firsts (previously mentioned) Awards program and Mentoring program

Communications

• Developed a comprehensive social media program to include twitter, LinkedIn, blog
• Revamped and increased frequency of the newsletter

CPSM Study Group

• Study group has been active for 2 years.  2 years ago our chapter had 3 CPSM’s – we now have 8.

Philanthropic Activities

• Supported Big Brothers Big Sisters and CANstruction

New Member Spotlight: Cara Salling

Cara Salling
GSC Architects

Where do you work and what’s your position? Brief Description of company.
I work at GSC Architects, and while my job title changes depending on who you ask, some of my ever-evolving responsibilities include: supporting our CEO, marketing, developing business connections, handling public relations, playing Webmaster, scheduling, coordinating social events, and much, much more. I am proud to have been a part of this company for over 5 years.

GSC Architects is a full service Architecture and Interior Design firm formed in Austin in 1978. We are more than just designers; we elevate our clients’ vision of success by designing built environments to cultivate community.

Where is your hometown?  Where did you go to school?
Austin is my hometown, but I decided I needed a change of pace so I went to school at Texas A&M University. I also studied abroad for a year in England and a semester in Spain while earning my degree in Communication. After graduating, there was only one place in Texas I knew I could call home and so I returned to Austin.

What do you like to do in your free time? Hobbies?
Free time? What is that? Just kidding! Work keeps me fairly busy, but I do love to get out and about in this great city. You’re most likely to run into me: (literally) on the trail around Ladybird/Town Lake sometimes with my puppies in tow; find me out at happy hour, because it never ceases to amaze me how many incredible restaurants/bars there are in this city; or volunteering for one of my favorite philanthropic organizations, Big Brothers Big Sisters.

How long have you been a member of SMPS?
While I have participated in a few SMPS events over the past five years, I officially became a member just earlier this summer.

What do you see as the benefits of your experience with the SMPS?
I hope to spend more time working with other marketing professionals in my industry on a more personal level. Instead of just putting together proposals via email and phone conversations, I’d like to actually sit down face to face and talk about issues that we all face in our daily efforts to help promote our companies.

September Luncheon: Building for the Future of Travis County - Upcoming Opportunities

Travis County has recently undergone in-depth studies to plan for the future facilities and transportation needs of the County. Senior county representatives will lead a discussion on the highly anticipated development of the new Travis County Courthouse, highlights of the County’s recent Central Campus Master Plan, and the upcoming November Bond Election for transportation and parks related projects.

Our panelists include:

• Steve Manilla, Executive Manager of the Travis County Transportation and Natural Resources and Member of the 2011 Bond Advisory Committee to discuss the details of the upcoming November Bond.
• Belinda Powell, Strategic Planning Manager of the Travis County Planning and Budget Office to discuss the Central Campus Master Plan and plans for the New Travis County Courthouse.

Seating will be limited for this meeting, so reserve early.

THE DISCOUNTED PRICE ENDS AFTER THURSDAY, September 8th!!

When:
Wednesday, September 14, 2011 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Where:
University of Texas Club - President's Room
2108 E. Robert Dedman Drive, Austin, TX 78712

Attire: Business Attire

Event Registration Fee:
Member: $35.00 for a limited time ($45.00 original price)
Non-Member: $45.00 for a limited time ($55.00 original price)

RSVP Tuesday, September 13, 2011

President’s Quarterly Note

The 2010-2011 SMPS year will soon be over and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank my fellow board members who have made this year a success. This fantastic group of individuals has put in many hours (including some evenings and weekends) to support the SMPS mission: To advocate for, educate, and connect leaders in the building industry. I’d like to thank them each personally for their dedication. As a precursor to individual kudos, each of the following members has shown over-the-top dedication and professionalism.

Paulette Gibbins was our immediate Past-President this year; she has served on the board for 6 years. In this past year, Paulette took on the task of chairing the Awards Committee which was responsible for our first ever awards program. I might also mention that many of the hours she spent this year on behalf of SMPS coincided with her first-ever pregnancy and maternity leave. Now that’s above-and-beyond dedication.

Karen Ward has also provided 10 years of leadership to the chapter. This past year she served as Secretary but she has had many board positions, including President in 2007-2008. She always has sound advice to share and can be counted on to provide last minute help on any task. Karen organized and chaired our first Mentor program this year.

This year was Tricia Knapik’s first year on the board. Shortly after the SMPS year started Tricia lost her job due to lay-offs. She wasn’t sure what she was going to do but she knew she still wanted to continue as chapter Treasurer. During the past year, Tricia has continued to “balance our books” while at the same time launching her own business, which is thriving.

Cathy Brandewie has served as our Programs Chair this past year. Being Programs Chair can be very stressful because the chapter is relying on you to provide programs that are timely and relevant to our membership. She kept the programs meetings running smoothly and never got overwhelmed by the tasks put before her. Thanks to her leadership, our programming was top-notch this year, with great speakers and record attendance numbers.

Another stressful board position, Sponsorship Chair, was handled beautifully by Stefanie Raya. Not only did she revamp our sponsorship structure to include new annual platinum and educational sponsorships, she has also secured luncheon sponsors throughout the year. Stefanie’s work this year has kept us “in the black”.

Helga Diaz was the Communications Committee chair this year. She pushed to get the Austin Chapter into the social media scene through LinkedIn, Twitter and our Blog. She organized the efforts of many communications committee members to keep all our communications activities current and relevant. She also revamped the newsletter content which was distributed through blog postings and quarterly electronic newsletters.

Devin Williamson has a knack for making everyone feel comfortable, which is an important quality for a Membership Director. Devin has always been an enthusiastic advocate for the chapter and has a great can-do attitude.

Elizabeth Haynie is extremely organized and is responsible for so much as Director-at-Large. This position creates and sends out event emails, works the event registration and coordinates program needs. She does it all and makes it all look effortless.

Thanks also to the many volunteers that have helped us out this year and to the companies that encourage their marketing and business development professionals to be active in SMPS.

So as we say adieu to the passing of this year, we are also looking forward to a new and exciting beginning. We have a new board that will be starting in September and will carry the torch for the next year. I am very excited to continue to serve as your President for the next year and look forward to seeing you all at the next SMPS event!

- Erika Passailaigue, Datum Engineers, Inc.

SMPS Program Spotlight: Mentor Protégé Review

The Austin SMPS Chapter initiated the first annual Mentoring Program last December. The program was designed to be a resource for our members to share best practices, expand their network and provide guidance for less experienced A/E/C marketing personnel. The SMPS Mentoring Program committee worked to successfully pair the individual mentors and protégés, and provided up-front guidance to both groups to help ensure a beneficial experience for both.

We were excited to have an enthusiastic group of mentors volunteer their time and expertise with protégés who have been eager to learn and grow professionally. The Mentoring Program committee invited the group for a mid-year meeting to share their input on how the program was progressing. The group was also treated to a personal discussion by Joel Stone, the new CEO of SpawGlass. Joel shared his insights into how he has moved through the ranks at SpawGlass, including his transition from business development manager to CEO. Joel also commented on the significant impact mentoring has had on his personal and professional development.

As our 2010-2011 class winds down this fall, the Mentoring Program committee is already preparing for the 2011-2012 class. The committee will again be seeking qualified mentors and interested protégés who want to be part of the program.

Please contact Karen Ward at 512-442-1122 or klward@terracon.com to be part of the program or part of the committee.

3rd Annual Summer Shindig - July 28th

Beat the heat and join us for the Summer Shindig on July 28! Registration closes today!

Worn out from 100+ degree days? Ready to escape the drudgery of a 9-to-5 routine and have a little summer fun? Mix it up at the 2011 Summer Shindig on July 28! Hosted by nine professional communications organizations in Austin, you’re sure to enjoy great conversation with your peers and make many new connections.

And since we can’t go elsewhere in the world during the dog days of Texas summer, the world is coming to us! The Shoreline Grill will serve up a delicious selection of food and wine from around the world to transport your taste buds to exotic (and cooler) locales while you watch the sun set from a terrace overlooking Lady Bird Lake.

WHEN
Thursday, July 28, 2011 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

WHERE
Shoreline Grill 98 San Jacinto Boulevard
Austin, Texas 78701
512-447-3300

COST
$35 per person

REGISTER
Pre-payment is required to accept your registration by Friday, July 22. For event information and registration click here.

SPONSOR
Pierpont Communications — To obtain the sponsor logo or more information, contact Sarah Zomper at 512-448-4950 or szomper@piercom.com.

Thank you to the hosts of the 2011 Summer Shindig: 

• Austin Advertising Federation
• AIGA — The Professional Association for Design, Austin chapter
• American Marketing Association, Austin chapter
• Association for
• Women in Communications, Austin chapter
• Industrial Design Society of America, Texas chapter
• International Association of Business Communicators, Austin chapter
• Legal Marketing Association, Southeastern chapter
• Society for Marketing Professional Services, Austin chapter
• National Investor Relations Institute, Austin — San Antonio chapter
• Public Relations Society of America, Austin chapter

5th Annual SMPS Connects - San Antonio + Austin: Development Along the I-35 Corridor

Please join SMPS Austin and SMPS San Antonio as we welcome Diana Blank, Rusty Brockman and Amy Madison as they brief us on what is going on in their cities and the surrounding areas.

PANELISTS:
Rusty Brockman, Director of Economic Development for the Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce

Diana Blank, Director of Economic Development for the City of Kyle

Amy Case Madison, CEcD, EDFP, CPM, President, Greater San Marcos Partnership

Moderator: Melodye Tomsu, CPSM, Director of Business Development & Marketing for Cleary Zimmermann
 
WHEN:
Friday, August 5th
11:30am - 1:00pm
 
WHERE:
San Marcos Conference Center
Embassy Suites - San Marcos
1001 McCarty Lane
San Marcos, TX 78666
 
PROGRAM SCHEDULE:
11:30am - Registration
12:00pm - Lunch
 
PRICE INFO:
Register by July 31st:
Members: $30 / Non-members: $40
 
Register August 1st or later:
Members: $45 / Non-members: $55
 
To register, please visit: http://sanantoniosmps.org/

SMPS Annual Wine Tasting and Networking

The SMPS Austin Chapter's 7th annual Wine Tasting Event will be held at Phara’s Mediterranean Cuisine and Christopher’s Casbah. Ike Johnson, Austin’s famous wine guy, will introduce us to five great wines while we enjoy Phara’s exotic appetizers and network with fellow A/E/C professionals in a relaxed setting. This event is always the highlight of the summer programming and fills up quickly. Register now to reserve your spot. Registration ends on Friday, July 8th!

When: Wednesday, July 13, 2011 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Where: Phara’s Mediterranean Cuisine
111 E North Loop Blvd, Austin, TX 78751-1226

Event Registration Fee:
Member: $30.00
Non-Member: $45.00

RSVP  by Friday, July 08, 2011

SMPS Lunch & Learn: 2011 Texas Legislature Recap

The 82nd Session of the Texas Legislature has officially ended and special sessions are underway. Join us as we get an up-to-the-minute review of how this legislative session will affect the A/E/C industry. In-the-know speakers from the Texas Society of Professional Engineers, Texas Society of Architects and Associated General Contractors will share with us their lobbying efforts and how new bills and regulations will impact your business.

Speakers:
Julie Harrod, PE - State President-Elect of the Texas Society of Professional Engineers

Yvonne Castillo - General Counsel at Texas Society of Architects

Mike Chatron - President, Associated General Contractors, Texas Building Branch

REGISTRATION CLOSES FRIDAY JUNE 24th

When: Wednesday, June 29, 2011 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM

Where: Atkins Global
6504 Bridge Point Parkway, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78703

Event Registration Fee:
Member: $20.00
Non-Member: $35.00

RSVP Friday, June 24, 2011

June Luncheon: Capitalizing on the Capitol Complex - Understanding the Capitol Complex Master Plan and Future Project Opportunities

Aundre Dukes, Portfolio Manager and Public Liaison with the Texas Facilities Commission Planning & Asset Management Division, will present the Capitol Area Development Strategy at the SMPS Austin luncheon on June 14th. The Facilities Master Plan delineating the agency’s priorities and initiatives for its 28.4 million square foot inventory was adopted January 19th 2011. The plan focuses on two initiatives: 1) Developing a Combined Heat and Power Plant for the Capitol Complex, and 2) a Comprehensive Asset Management and Development Strategy to maximize utilization of assets and value for the State.

The State owns property within the Capitol Complex totaling 122 acres, the equivalent of 70 city blocks. The complex contains the Capitol Building and grounds, State office buildings, garages and surface lots. TFC identified approximately 21 acres of under-developed State-owned assets within the complex, mostly comprised of parking lots and garages, outside of the Capitol grounds. Preliminary studies indicate the development potential of these underdeveloped assets could yield an additional 7.1 million square feet of new facilities, double the amount of space currently used to office State employees, thereby relieving the State of annual expenses and reducing the State’s excessive reliance on commercial leases.

The Commission has identified approximately 1.3 million square feet of Austin area administrative state leases for consolidation into new State facilities. These facilities can be constructed on underdeveloped holdings. The targeted leases serve 5,500 employees at a cost of $16.7 million per year. The remaining 5.8 million square feet of under-developed properties could generate significant revenues from non-tax sources if developed for market driven mixed uses.

Mr. Dukes will discuss more about how and what the State hopes to accomplish with this Capitol Area Development Strategy.

THE DISCOUNTED PRICE ENDS AFTER WEDNESDAY, June 8th!!

WHEN: Tuesday, June 14, 2011
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

WHERE: University of Texas Club - President's Room
2108 E. Robert Dedman Drive
Austin, TX 78712

ATTIRE: Business Attire

EVENT REGISTRATION FEE:
Member: $35.00 for a limited time ($45.00 original price)
Non-Member: $45.00 for a limited time ($55.00 original price)

RSVP Monday, June 13, 2011

SMPS Networking Happy Hour at Red House Pizzeria and Bar

Join SMPS Austin for a spring happy hour on the expansive patio at Red House Pizzeria and Bar. This east Austin establishment has great happy hour specials and a relaxing atmosphere. Mingle with old and new friends, as many out-of-town SMPS members will be in Austin for the National Workshop: “Managing and Leading a Successful Business Development Team.” Hope to see you there!

Cost: No cost for admission.

Half-price Appetizers - $2 Lone Star - $3 House Punch - $4 House Wine. Cash Bar.

When: Tuesday, May 17, 2011 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Where: Red House Pizzeria and Bar
 1917 Manor Road, Austin, TX 78722

Golf 101 for the Business Developer: featuring Alan Bell, Director of Design and Construction at Seton Network Facilities

Golf can be a GREAT business development tool! But what if you don’t know how to golf or are too intimidated to try it? SMPS has a solution. “Golf 101 for the Business Developer” is targeted for marketing and business developers who are beginner or intermediate level players. The workshop will introduce you to the sport, make you more comfortable on the course, and teach you how to successfully blend golf and business.

Even if you aren’t a beginner level golfer, you can gain something from this event! There are two “tracks” to this workshop.

*Track 1 includes the golf lesson and the business etiquette/networking session.
*Track 2 includes only the business etiquette/networking session with Alan Bell of Seton Network Facilities (suited for advanced golfers).

The golf lesson (3-5pm):  Taught by Grey Rock Golf Professionals, this two hour lesson will be split between the driving range and putting green and will cover mechanics, technique and golf etiquette. This lesson is limited to 25 people and will be taught by two Golf Pros.

The business etiquette and networking session (5-6:30pm):  Guest speaker Alan Bell will give us an owner’s perspective on how to successfully do business while golfing. He will discuss business etiquette, golf do’s and don’ts, and business norms on the course. This session is limited to 50 people and includes drinks, appetizers and networking.

No golf equipment is necessary. Dress in comfortable clothes and shoes, and wear sunscreen.

When: Thursday, May 05, 2011 3:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Where: Grey Rock Golf Club
7401 Highway 45, Austin, TX 78739

Event Registration Fees:

Golf and Networking:
Member: $50.00
Non-Member: $65.00

Business Etiquette and Networking ONLY
Member: $35.00
Non-Member: $45.00

RSVP Tuesday, May 03, 2011

Project Spotlight: Oasis, Texas

This destination mixed-use development of more than 30 shops and two restaurants shares the same property as the Oasis restaurant and sits on a cliff 450 feet above Lake Travis. The multiple-phase project includes 40,000 sf of office space, a 25,000 sf retail complex and a four-story parking garage. One of the goals of the project was to create a European village market. In order to achieve this, local artisans and craftspeople were chosen to respond to the climate and character of the site with local building materials and found objects.

The development includes two restaurants. Uncle Billy’s Brew & Que is built with rough and reclaimed wood and decorative pressed tin; the brewery and restaurant are distinctly Texas rustic and have a comfortable down-home feeling of traditional barbeque joints. Large garage doors open to the spectacular views of Lake Travis at sunset. The two-story restaurant has generous seating areas, three bars, a private dining room on the lower level with additional seating and an expansive outdoor bar and live music venue on the upper level. Both levels are designed to showcase the largest allowable in-house brewery that operates on both floors of the restaurant.

Soleil, the second restaurant, draws inspiration from the colors for which this location on Lake Austin is best-known – The deep rich blues of the clear lake and the fiery orange and red hues of the setting sun and then sets them against a back drop of weathered and worn muted wood. Generously sized balconies accommodate outdoor seating with excellent views of the sunset while the open perimeter doors invite cool breezes to flow into the core of the restaurant.

Architect
Dick Clark Architecture

Contractor
Harvey Cleary

MEP Engineer – Site Work and Infrastructure
Jose I. Guerra

Structural Engineer
Structures

If you are interested in submitting a recently completed project for inclusion in the SMPS Austin Newsletter, please contact Helga Diaz.

SMPS Oasis, Texas Tour

To view more pictures click here.

May Luncheon: Northern Exposure – Uncovering Booming Development

The new census results confirmed that three cities to the north of Austin: Hutto, Leander and Cedar Park are growing at a red, hot pace. What do these communities do different, why is the economic downturn not affecting them as much, and what are their plans for the future? Listen to the economic development directors for these three thriving communities as they share their distinct plans for attracting new businesses, community growth and safety, and upcoming projects. Find out how the highways 130 and 183 are pushing this growth, why the rail line is making a difference, and what to expect in the next decade.

Panel:
Phil Brewer, Cedar Park Economic Development
Scott Martinez, Hutto Economic Development
Kirk Clennan, Leander Economic Development

Moderator: Charley Ayres, Temple Economic Development

THE DISCOUNTED PRICE ENDS AFTER WEDNESDAY,

May 4th!!

When: Tuesday, May 10, 2011 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Where: University of Texas Club - President's Room
2108 E. Robert Dedman Drive, Austin, TX 78712

Attire: Business Attire

Event Registration Fee:
Member: $35.00 for a limited time ($45.00 original price)
Non-Member: $45.00 for a limited time ($55.00 original price)

RSVP by Monday, May 9, 2011

April Luncheon: City of Austin Emerging Developments Refresher

As the Austin AEC industry emerges from the recent downturn and the real estate market stabilizes, many entities are looking to take advantage of available design and construction talent as well as the depressed commodity market. As such we welcome Fred Evins, an architect from the COA Economic Development/Planning team. He will cover (re-)emerging development, the City’s discussions with other agencies, and the City’s recent bond package.

SPEAKER
Fred Evins, Architect - City of Austin Economic Development/Planning Team

THE DISCOUNTED PRICE ENDS AFTER WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6TH!!

When: Tuesday, April 12, 2011 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Where: University of Texas Club - President's Room 2108 E. Robert Dedman Drive, Austin, TX 78712

Attire: Business Attire

Event Registration Fee:
Member: $35.00 for a limited time ($45.00 original price)
Non-Member: $45.00 for a limited time ($55.00 original price)

RSVP by Monday, April 11, 2011

Resource Review: Social Media all-in-one place, your desktop.

Tweeting, updating your status, sharing a great article, uploading images, it can all be a bit overwhelming, but more and more unavoidable, especially when your profession includes any aspect of marketing or business development.

One of the biggest reasons for avoiding the world of twittering and liking is the time commitment it takes to stay on top of it all. When SMPS Austin decided to take on Twitter, I knew I needed to find something that would make it easy for me to manage my various social media pursuits without distracting me from my daily email responding, meeting attending, qualification writing day job. After some searching I came across Seesmic Desktop 2 (SD2), a "go-to" desktop application.

The application allows for all-in-one access to a variety of popular social media services, including the usual suspects Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn, but the plug-in marketplace also includes entertainment, news, business and shopping apps. The RSS Feed Reader has helped me stay up-to-date on my favorite blogs including those covering the State Legislature. SD2 allows you to customize what services you would like updated on your home screen and whether you want updates to be integrated into one feed or kept separated.

The application also allows you to choose whether you would like to use pop-up notifications to alert you when there are new posts. These popup windows are like Outlook’s email notifications and although at times a bit annoying, they do serve their purpose by keeping you engaged, while you work.

Another nice thing about SD2 is the ability to update all your own social networks at once or separately. It is as easy as clicking which service to “post from” and what type of update you are posting, whether a link, image or simple text. SD2 will even let you know how many remaining characters you have left.

Seesmic Desktop 2 is a handy resource in today’s social media world and has become part of my morning routine; coffee, voicemail, Outlook, Seesmic Desktop 2.  Will it be part of yours?

Helga Diaz
Structures