About CyConnect : History

CyConnect International from the Beginning

CyConnect.org originated from the BlueCielo International Users Conference in Atlanta in June 2005. BlueCielo users who attended the Community Marketing Session were asked to complete survey cards to express interest in the user’s group. From the overwhelming response in favor of users forming a user group organization, an advisory council was formed and CyConnect International was born.

October 11, 2005

• Professional organization vs. a User Group organization: After much discussion the council decided they wanted this group to have aspects of both. They wanted a professional organization that is creditable and worthwhile for the time and efforts of BlueCielo users who participate.
• Access to information and professional growth: This was, by far, the biggest need identified by the users.
• Fees for membership: The pros and cons of having a fee-based User Group Organization were discussed, but the Advisory Board wanted to table this discussion until a later date. The group felt it was still in the early stages of group development and research and did not have enough knowledge yet to make a decision.

December 6, 2005

• Website: Ideas for the user group website develop, which includes forums where users can access general discussions, share tips and tricks, troubleshoot, participate with wish lists, and more.
• Resellers:Resellers will contribute to the discussion forums, but not to solicit. They would act as a trusted advisor.

January 10, 2006

• User group’s name: The name CyConnect International was voted on and unanimously approved.
• Website:The development and growth of the website begins.

February 7, 2006

• Logo:CyConnect International received a logo and branding to represent the user community.
• BlueCielo commitment: The council met with BlueCielo CEO Martijn Janmaat who pledge support to CyConnect International.
• Launch of CyConnect International:The organization would be formally launched at the BlueCielo Annual User Group conference in Atlanta in June.

April 4, 2006

• International participants:Discussion about having international members join the council; voted unanimously to add council members.
• Website:Refinement discussed.

April 26, 2006

• First face-to-face meeting at BlueCielo in Atlanta: The advisory council evolves into the CyConnect International Board of Directors.
• Bylaws: Bylaws are established and reviewed.
• Chairman:Joe Norton is voted as the first Chairman for CyConnect International.
• Meetings:The BoD agreed to quarterly webcasts for the users to gather information, monthly BoD meetings, and one annual meeting in June.
• Mission Statement:First draft of CyConnect International mission statement.
• User Group Objectives and goals: The BoD focuses on the goals for the user group; goals are also set for the next stage of CyConnect development after June launch.
• BlueCielo Annual Meeting:The group prepared for the launch of CyConnect International at the BlueCielo User Conference in June.

May 2, 2006

• Bylaw, Mission Statement, and Website:Revisions discussed.