Managing financial data for large events can be a daunting task for associations, especially when using multiple systems to handle event registration, booth selection, and payment processing.
For Deputy Executive Director Becky Bunte and her association, the Texas Association of School Business Officials (TASBO), the challenge lay in integrating their exhibit management system, A2Z, with their association management system, iMIS, to create a seamless flow of financial data. The solution? eBridge from ISG Solutions.
The Challenge
For years, TASBO used an earlier version of iMIS with a bridge developed by ISG Solutions. This bridge enabled data synchronization between iMIS and A2Z, ensuring financial and engagement data were consolidated. However, when the association migrated to iMIS EMS, which operates in the cloud, the old bridge was no longer compatible.
Without the bridge, TASBO faced significant operational hurdles:
- Fragmented Data: Financial and engagement data were spread across two systems, leading to incomplete records in iMIS EMS.
- Inefficiencies: Manual processes were required to transfer data between A2Z and iMIS, delaying month-end close and increasing the risk of errors.
- Limited Insights: Incomplete data in iMIS hampered reporting and decision-making, such as assessing vendor engagement and financial contributions.
Determined not to lose the benefits of data synchronization, Bunte engaged with ISG Solutions, advocating for the development of a new bridge compatible with iMIS EMS.
The Solution: eBridge
ISG Solutions responded to TASBO’s request, agreeing to build a new version of their bridge tailored to iMIS EMS. Unlike other solutions that only sync engagement data, eBridge brings both financial and engagement data into iMIS on a scheduled basis, ensuring a comprehensive view of all event transactions.
Implementation Journey
The journey to implement the new eBridge began with a collaborative effort between the TASBO team, ISG Solutions, and Intuitive Business Concepts, TASBO’s iMIS solution provider. The commitment of all three organizations to the new solution ensured a seamless transition.
Key milestones included:
- Development and Testing: ISG developed an integration for iMIS EMS, ensuring seamless data flow from A2Z to iMIS EMS. As part of the development process, ISG built in the capability for the eBridge integration to work with eShow, Cvent, and other event software.
- Go-Live and Syncing: After going live on iMIS EMS in September, TASBO began syncing data in mid-November. This included clearing a backlog of transactions and testing daily syncs.
- Ongoing Collaboration: ISG’s team, including lead developer Diego, provided prompt support to address minor glitches and refine processes. ISG continues to work on enhancing the functionality of eBridge, including the ability to handle orders and products in the future.
The Results
With the new eBridge in place, TASBO achieved:
- Centralized Financial Data: All vendor transactions now reside in iMIS EMS, simplifying reporting and enabling better decision-making.
- Operational Efficiency: Daily automated syncs replaced manual data transfers, saving time and reducing errors.
- Enhanced Trust: The successful implementation strengthened trust between TASBO, IBC and ISG Solutions, paving the way for future collaboration.
Impact on Events
The association plans to use eBridge for three conferences annually, including their flagship event with 375 vendors. By automating data integration, TASBO’s team can focus on delivering exceptional events rather than managing data logistics.
Conclusion
eBridge has transformed the way TASBO handles event financials, proving that a robust integration solution can bridge the gap between third-party systems and AMS platforms. ISG Solutions’ responsiveness to TASBO’s needs ensured a successful transition to iMIS EMS.
Learn More
For associations seeking a reliable way to streamline their event financial operations, eBridge offers a proven path to success.
To find out how eBridge can help your association centralize event financial data and improve operational efficiency, contact ISG Solutions today.