Broadview, Ill. — The Unified Group, an independent association of HVAC mechanical contractors based here, is holding its 2008 Service Management Forum in Salt Lake City, Utah, Sept. 24-27.

The forum is an opportunity for The Unified Group members to discuss best practices of improving office processes, recruiting and training plans, managing service contracts, and addressing rising operations costs.

“We are looking forward to having a great forum full of collaboration and information sharing between the members,” said The Unified Group Executive Director Julie Bishop.

Members will learn about the benefits of going “green” in service and about the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. The group will also discuss how to sell quality in an economic downturn, ways to deal with manufacturer competition, and time management and leadership skills.

Formed in 1998, The Unified Group is an independent association of 52 of the country's top commercial HVAC contractors, representing more than $750 million in revenue. The group specializes in helping its members increase productivity, profitability, and customer retention by providing training opportunities, exchanging information, sharing best practices, and negotiating purchasing agreements.

Additional information is available at 888/714-5990 or at www.theunifiedgroup.com.