Breakout Sessions

Xactware professionals and power Xactware users will combine to present a range of sessions with a heavy emphasis on real-world application. Preliminary planning includes sessions on the following topics (session topics and content are subject to change):

What's New in Xactimate version 27

Xactimate version 27 is scheduled for release during first quarter of 2010. Xactimate version 27 is a major leap forward with significantly expanded capabilities, streamlined workflows, and easier-to-use features. You will explore new Xactimate version 27 features in this session and learn about the possibilities they provide to work faster and more intuitively.

Complex Roof Sketching with Xactimate version 27

Sketch in Xactimate version 27 accomplished what seem to be two opposing goals: it contains a wealth of new features and it's easier to use. New, visually oriented Sketch tools make complex Sketching intuitive and easy. This session walks you through the new Roof Sketching capabilities, applies the new features to complex roofs, and discusses best practices for accurate and speedy roof sketching.

Difficult Sketch Challenges - Beyond Roofs

Sketching complex roofs is one challenge estimators commonly face but there are many more. Non-rectangular rooms, complex stairs with odd-shaped rooms beneath, varying elevations, and the infinite variety of intersecting walls, ceilings, shapes, and openings that spring from the minds of architects and designers are just a few. In this session you will move beyond roof sketching challenges to focus on other complex sketching issues.

Xactware's Trend Reports: The Power of Information

Xactware offers a range of unique reports that provide a distinct advantage for Xactware users who understand how to use them. In this session you will see an overview of Xactware reports such as the yearly Property Report, Xactware's Industry Trend Reports, and Xactware Indices. You will also learn how to use the reports to stay on top of trends and how to effectively apply reports to your business.

Power Estimating Tips and Tricks

Two Xactimate users can compile the same estimate with generally the same accuracy but one can spend as little as 10 percent of the time spent by the other. Xactimate is packed with shortcuts, features, and tools that are designed to streamline and accelerate estimating. In this session you will learn how to take full advantage of these features to make sure you are as efficient as possible when completing detailed estimates.

Powerful Claims Management with Xactimate, Tips and Tricks

The claims management tools in Xactimate can help you effectively manage claims and document progress. In this session you will learn claims management tips and tricks that can help reduce the time you spend reporting on and documenting claims. You will see real-world examples from claims experts and also hear from Xactware professionals on shortcuts and features.

Xactimate and Technology Showcase

Xactware tools work on, and with, a wide variety of technology. From entering dimensions using voice commands or laser measuring devices to unique floor-plan printing solutions, Xactware users are constantly adapting technology to meet their needs. In this session you will see some of the creative, and sometimes unexpected, ways Xactware users are getting the most from their Xactware tools. Xactware professionals have been doing some innovating of their own and will discuss some exciting new features and plans, including new software for mobile devices. If you have a unique story to tell, please send an email to User Conference.

The Power of XactAnalysis

XactAnalysis is a powerful tool that helps you track performance and maintain quality and service standards while at the same time providing unprecedented analytics. XactAnalysis also provides seamless integration with many of the third-party companies you may work with. No matter what your specialty in the industry, there is a version of XactAnalysis that is right for you. In this session you will learn how to tap the full power of this important tool and see examples of how your fellow industry experts are using the tool in their business.

Xactware Tools - The Big Picture

Xactware provides products and services for the complete spectrum of property insurance professionals. This includes products for underwriters looking to create a valuation of a building, special features for repair service providers and independent adjusters, and features targeted for staff adjusters and specialty third-party providers. Understanding how all Xactware products fit together, exchange information, and provide information can be important for understanding how you can more effectively work with your colleagues using the tools, reports, and analysis Xactware provides.

Estimating Personal Property with XactContents

Personal property estimating requires careful attention to detail, accurate pricing, and solutions for pricing rare or unique items. This session will discuss strategies for quickly estimating contents items using the XactContents system. Topics will include using QuickEntry, search options, spreadsheet import, how to find the prices you need for unusual items, how to choose like-kind-and-quality equivalents for items that are no longer manufactured, and much more. Industry and Xactware experts will provide insight on estimating techniques and features that can make contents estimating faster and easier than ever before.

Integrated Third-Party Solutions

Many Xactware users rely on key services and products from companies outside of Xactware. Xactware works hard to identify and work with these companies in order to integrate services and to streamline your workflow. In this session you will not see a sales presentation from any of these providers but instead a discussion about how you can implement important aspects of your current workflow from inside of Xactware tools.

Pricing Research Methodology, Approaches, and Uses

Xactware provides pricing research and analysis for all regions of the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. In this session you will learn about Xactware's research methodology, the importance of communication from Xactware users, and different ways to update price lists and customize them to meet your company's needs. Note: Anti-trust laws and Xactware policy forbid the discussion of any specific published prices or of any company's policies.

Getting Up to Speed

How can you get new staff up to speed on Xactware tools as quickly as possible? This question is particularly acute after a major catastrophe when the need for new staff makes training critical. In this session you will learn about the range of options available to train new users or improve the skills of existing users. Power Xactware users will discuss the training techniques and processes they have found to be most effective. In this session you will also learn how to use Xactware's eService Center and chat support.

Estimating Green Buildings

Green building has moved from a niche market to the mainstream. Many new laws have been passed or are being considered that have an impact on green building. New certifications have been developed to help define when a building is green. Even "non-green" buildings often have some aspects that could be considered green such as energy-saving appliances, flooring made from sustainable woods, or natural daytime lighting. In this session you will learn about leading green building standards, what Xactware is doing to support green-building estimating, trends in the industry, and some critical, emerging issues.

Catastrophe Management with Xactware Tools

Catastrophes can severely test organizations and their ability to maintain service and quality standards. Xactware provides a range of proven tools that can help. In this session you will learn how Xactware tools interact in a catastrophe, how they can solve common problems, and how they can help you maintain quality and efficiency. You will also learn how Xactware responds to support your work on a catastrophe with services such as enhanced training options, focused pricing research, and a network designed to handle sudden spikes in activity.

Special events

The 2010 Xactware User Conference includes several events that provide opportunities for conversations with Xactware professionals and industry peers.

Professional Panel

An experienced panel of leading industry and Xactware professionals will address topics submitted by conference participants.

Topic Lunch

Tables at the conference lunches will be labeled with topics such as Xactimate, XactAnalysis, Roof Sketching, Green Building, and so forth. You pick a table and join the informal discussion.

Reception

Relax, connect with other industry experts, and chat with Xactware staff at an evening reception hosted by Xactware.

A Call for Presenters and Ideas

Do you have a great story to tell that possibly applies to one of our breakout sessions or do you have an idea for a great new session? We want to hear from you. Send an email to User Conference.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Connect with the industry's leading experts with 2010 Xactware User Conference sponsorship opportunities. Send an email to User Conference for more information.