FPDA—Serving Fluid Power and Motion Technology Distributors is hosting its 2005 Annual Meeting, titled "Business Intelligence: Avenues to a Prosperous Future," April 17–20, at the Marriott Desert Springs Resort in Palm Desert, Calif. The meeting, a management-level education and networking program, is designed to help members master the sourcing, organization, and analysis of business intelligence, leading them to new opportunities and improved business efficiencies, according to FPDA information.

The meeting kicks off on Sunday with an executive committee meeting, board of directors luncheon and meeting, and ends the day with both the First Timer's/YES reception, and the association's welcome reception. Attendees are invited to take part in the meeting's first sightseeing activity, the Aerial Tram Tour, that afternoon.

Monday's agenda begins with the General Session, which includes a presentation by Dr. Bill McCleave, titled "Business Intelligence: Avenues to a Prosperous Future;" author and professional speaker Sanford Kahn's "A Look into the Future;" and a presentation led by Eli S. Lustgarten, titled "Fluid Power End-Use Markets." Lustgarten, a noted analyst for the industrial manufacturing and technology sector of the economy, will focus on managing the mid-decade boom. Monday afternoon's activities include the men's and ladies' golf outings, the Indian Canyon Trail Ride, and the Celebrity Homes of Palm Springs Tour. The Balloon About the Desert outing is available that evening.

Tuesday's General Session includes a workshop led by Steve Farber, titled "Leadership: The Radical Leap;" and Hank Federal's "Human Resources Effectiveness." Farber, president of Extreme Leadership, Inc., will show how attendees can use his LEAP framework to improve their organizations. Federal, Findley Davis' principal and national practice director, compensation and reward practice, will lead a discussion on HR and compensation management programs and policies that will fulfill the needs of the future workforce. Tuesday afternoon is devoted to the association's popular Focus Group sessions, six groups that will provide a framework for discussion. Attendees are invited to enjoy the annual reception and dinner that night.

Wednesday's agenda includes the Closing General Session, which features a presentation by Todd Youngblood of The YPS Group, Inc., titled "Sales Effort Effectiveness," where he will demonstrate how a relentless, methodical approach can lead to real sales growth.

Visit www.fpda.org for more information.