Customers of Bluebird Auto Rental Systems gathered in Atlantic City to attend the biennial Users Conference at Caesar's Resort.

The hands-on event spanned over two days and placed a large focus on Bluebird's technological developments.

Owners and management of Bluebird delivered presentations, and attendees participated in "speed networking" sessions, group discussions and round table breakouts on topics ranging from Business Process Management to Social Media.

A mini trade show showcased potential products that can interface with RentWorks, Bluebird's software for car rental companies. Customers were also given an opportunity to learn more about and give input on new features and products.

Sharon Faulkner, executive director of the American Car Rental Association, delivered a talk on the importance of a national association for all car rental operators. She also sat in on a roundtable.

"The innovations and improvements in the software today are amazing," Faulkner said. "And the way the car rental operators are coming up with ideas and solutions to their marketing concerns with the Bluebird software was impressive," said Faulkner, who admits to not having attended the conference when she was a Dollar/Thrifty licensee. "I found out that I should have practiced what I have always preached: find the time in your daily grind to go to conferences and shows where you can, hands on, learn more about your chosen profession and then take that knowledge back to work with you and watch the results."