Spotlight Shines Bright on the Association of Dental Support Organizations As They 'Lead The Way' for DSOs

Chris Vranas, ADSO’s Executive Director, kicks things off

The Association of Dental Support Organizations recently held their annual summit in Austin, Texas. The 2018 ADSO Summit was designed to provide the best education and networking opportunities for both established and emerging DSOs. This year’s summit featured an expanded program from the 2017 event. It is the only meeting exclusively for DSOs and group practices designed to support growth, expansion and to better understand advantages of being part of the fastest growing segment in dentistry.

The ADSO Summit has had tremendous growth in recent years and this year’s meeting, with an over 20% attendee increase from last year, was no exception. The event had close to 1,100 attendees from eight different countries, including DSOs from Australia, Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and of course, the United States.

“We had companies from all over the world which allowed a tremendous about of dialog on the future of DSOs worldwide. Large DSO CEOs were very forthcoming with advice and strategies for emerging DSOs. Our keynote speakers provided a wealth of information on social media, growth strategies and understanding and engaging in with today’s patient.” – Chris Vranas, Executive Director, ADSO

The meeting kicked off on Wednesday, April 18th with an exclusive pre-conference lunch and welcome presentation, followed by round table networking, pre-conference pre-arranged meetings, and an industry partner advisory meeting. Wednesday night concluded with the opening reception at Austin’s original “swanky joint” called the Speakeasy. Drinks, dancing, a live band, bowling, and ADSO swag were some of the highlights of the night. For those that did not want to end the night at the opening reception, law firm Dykema hosted a well attended after party at Hanger Lounge‘s rooftop deck overlooking Austin.

Networking at the Speakeasy

Morning Breakout Session – Strategic Expansion

Thursday morning began with an opening general session CEO panel discussion, including Scott Hudsmith (Smile Doctors), Michael Bileca (DCA), Alistair Madle (D4C), A.J Acierno (DecisionOne Dental) and Steve Bilt (Smile Brands). This session was followed by keynote speaker, branding expert Martin Lindstrom. Later in the morning, attendees were able to choose from a variety of high impact breakout sessions conducted by influential dental support leaders and industry partners. Thursday afternoon continued with more breakout sessions that focused on growth, development, advocacy, operations and recruitment. Later in the afternoon, DSO leaders hit the industry partner ‘talk tables’ to learn more about DSO specific products and services. The ‘talk tables’ with industry partners provided additional information on the latest technology and services for DSOs and large group practices.

DSOs learn from Industry Partners in the Talk Table area

The evening concluded with a bus trip to an outdoor networking reception at Stubb’s BBQ. The event featured a live band, Austin style BBQ, leather-making, a wide variety of games, and of course some ADSO swag.

Road trip to Stubb’s BBQ!

Stubb’s BBQ live!

The final day of the summit started off with morning breakout sessions that not only included growth, development, operations and recruitment, but also added several marketing breakout sessions opportunities. Lastly, but certainly not least, was closing keynote speaker Josh Linkner.

“We look forward to welcoming all DSOs and group practices as members of the ADSO and to our Partnering for Growth – Pathway to a DSO programs being held in July and November.” – Chris Vranas, Executive Director, ADSO

Other Upcoming ADSO Events:
Mark your calendar for 2019’s ADSO Summit which will be held in San Diego at the Manchester Grand Hyatt from March 26th to March 30th. But, you don’t have to wait until 2019 for another ADSO event. The ADSO is now hosting two Partnering for Growth events in 2018 that focus on mentoring and educating emerging dental groups in their quest for growth. The first of the two Partnering for Growth events will be held in Denver, CO at the Grand Hyatt on Welton Street from July 9th – July 11th. The second Partnering for Growth event of 2018 will take place in the Big Apple from November 11th – November 14th at the Marriott Marquis in Time Square.

To find out more and register for the next ADSO, Partnering for Growth event, Pathway to a DSO on July 7th – July 11th click HERE. While you are at it, check out the all NEW ADSO website!