First Resort Software Wraps Up Annual Forum with Innovator Awards

Aspen, CO, October  24, 1997 --  "I innovate or die."  That was the message delivered to vacation  rental managers and other industry leaders at the forum hosted by First  Resort Software in Aspen last week.

The message was heard by approximately 450 people attending the annual  event, and illustrated by the example of ten firms awarded for innovation  and excellence.  The firms receiving awards included hospitality companies
from Colorado, Florida, New York, North Carolina and Utah.

These industry leaders were recognized for solving customer relations, human  resource and marketing challenges with innovative use of technologies.  Innovations ranged from effective Internet marketing strategies to  integration of electronic room keys with charging privileges at vendors  community-wide.

FRS hosts the forum each fall to provide technical training, unveil new  product modules and to discuss industry trends with clients and associate  vendors from across the North America and the Caribbean.  The message from
FRS was that the Internet is quickly becoming a major driving force for the  industry.  FRS revealed its plans for introduction of a Windows-style  reservations interface written in Java, the language of the Internet.  In  fact, First Resort believes so strongly in the Internet, and related  Intranet technologies, that it will ultimately rewrite its entire program in  Java.

With round table discussions, panel presentations and general sessions, the  Forum reached new heights according to many attendees.  The third day of the  conference also reached new depths, with up to a foot of snow falling in the  Aspen area.  Although many attendees planned to extend their trip over the  weekend, others remained in Aspen as a result of travel delays at Denver  International Airport.

This was the 12th consecutive year for the Forum, which has become a  highlight of the travel year for vacation property managers.  Next year's  forum will be held September 22-25, and will focus on leadership as an
expression of innovation.

For more information about First Resort Software, the FRS Forum, or detailed information on the award winners,  call 970-925-9100, or visit  First Resort on-line at www.firstres.com.