With the evolution of the energy industry affecting every aspect of electricity in today’s society, utilities are facing critical decisions about integrating these technologies without compromising and affecting power reliability, safety, and most importantly, customer service. Smart grid promises to enable the transition to this "new energy economy". The utility industry is spending hundreds of millions of dollars over the next five years on smart grid technologies such as advanced metering infrastructure, demand side management, enhanced distribution automation, and upgraded network infrastructure.  The roll out of smart meters and the subsequent demand side management programs will inherently increase interaction between utilities and customers at unprecedented levels. In parallel to smart grid deployments, utilities are compelled to revamp their customer service programs to address the anticipated increase in customer and utility interaction.  Join Frost & Sullivan, Elster, and West Corporation as they share real-world experiences and insights gained from large-scale meter deployments across North America.  While smart grid technologies promise a new customer experience, the deployment of these technologies during the transition period can greatly affect a utility’s customer satisfaction, and ultimately its long-term operational and financial success. During this 60-minute complimentary eBroadcast, we’ll explore: Overview of the demand side management sector and its influence on the utility market Summary of the Frost & Sullivan consumer survey on new energy trends What the utility industry is doing in reaction to consumer demands, grid management & mitigation, and government stimulus spending A customer centric approach to utilities care. Dealing with customers on their terms Review of End to End customer service best practices and contact strategy Click here to register and join us as we discuss how you can provide a smarter quality service and increase your bottom line. Share and exchange your experience and viewpoints with our panel of experts during our live, interactive Q&A following the presentation. Farah Saeed Senior Consultant, Energy and Power Systems Frost & Sullivan   David W. Green Executive VP Customers & Markets Elster Solutions Rhonda Gibler Senior Vice President of Sales West Corporation As our appreciation to you for joining us on this eBroadcast, all participants will be entered into a giveaway for an iPad!

Frost & Sullivan Awards West Corporation OMAHA, Neb., Feb 05, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- West Corporation, a leading provider of technology-driven, voice-oriented solutions, today announced that it received the 2010 Frost & Sullivan North American Contact Center Outsourcing Company of the Year Award. For the Company of the Year Award, Frost & Sullivan evaluated providers on their growth strategy and implementation, their degree of innovation in business processes, products and/or technologies, and their leadership in customer value and market penetration. "West continues to distinguish itself by the sheer depth of its services. The company has the technology, human capital and financial resources to offer clients the widest array of customer communication offerings in North America," said Michael DeSalles, strategic analyst for Frost & Sullivan. "What makes West such a formidable competitor is its focus on a complete 'blended' solution through their two business segments, Unified Communications and Communication Services. No other single player can offer a comprehensive mix of services across all areas - voice-self service, speech solutions, automated notifications, conferencing and collaboration, emergency communications, agent assisted voice support and advanced hosted contact center technology." "The Company of the Year Award is a prestigious recognition of West's accomplishments in the North American market and is a true reflection of the efforts we continually make to offer best-in-class technologies and solutions to our clients," said Steve Stangl, president of West Communication Services, West Corporation. "Our unique ability to combine comprehensive communication services with strategic worldwide locations, advanced technology and experienced personnel has enabled us to lead the industry." The North American Contact Center Outsourcing Company of the Year Award recognized West Corporation for its overall company strategy, professional services consultation, demonstrated leadership in customer value and market penetration, range of service offerings and multi-layered security protection. In addition, the award highlighted West's growth strategy and the company's ability to identify and successfully integrate acquisitions of value-added service providers.