ireless was the name of the game at the second annual Western States Acquirers' Association (WSAA) meeting, held in La Jolla, Calif. Nov 2 - 3, 2005. More than 450 merchant level salespeople (MLSs), ISOs, processors, acquirers, and exhibitors combined gathered in the Marriott beneath Southern California's palm trees.

Attendees left better educated about wireless, contactless and other new technologies, better networked among their peers, and better informed of new offerings in the industry. Participation in United Bank Card Inc.'s Texas Hold'em Charity Poker Tournament following the closing reception may have even left some better at a hand of cards.

This year, general sessions were held in the same room where exhibitors set up their booths. (WSAA designated plenty of time with exhibitors for the opening and closing receptions and various breaks throughout the day.) Although it was noisy at times during the presentations, the set up created a communal atmosphere for all in attendance.

A panel of seven, all from leading wireless solution providers, made up the opening presentation entitled "Wireless: Where We Are Today." They discussed the history of wireless, networks and coverage, benefits to MLSs and merchants, and the challenges and limitations of the technology.

Several breakout sessions, which ranged from integrated payments, ISO and merchant financing, value-added selling, check imaging, compliance and Internet protocol (IP) case studies, were held immediately before and after lunch. In another general session, representatives from MasterCard International and Visa U.S.A provided an update on their proximity payment solutions.

Keynote and closing speaker Tom Wimsett of Iron Triangle Payment Systems offered his insight on the most significant trends affecting the payments industry. He discussed consolidation and public offerings; increased risk; auxiliary products; an emphasis on quality of service versus low price; and growing investments in talent and technology.

Something Extra From NAOPP and Field Guide Enterprises

On Nov. 2, preceding WSAA's conference, two independent events took place. National Association of Payment Professionals (NAOPP) offered an educational program on wireless technology in the morning. Representatives from leading wireless providers, including WAY Systems, Comstar Interactive, AIRCHARGE and VeriFone presented their solutions and clarified points for the audience.

More than 70 people, a majority of whom were MLSs, packed the room. Ernie Crews, NAOPP Vice President, who led the event, pointed out the standing room-only attendance as evidence of NAOPP's growing verve.

In the afternoon, Field Guide Enterprises' Mark Dunn hosted the seminar "Achieving Success in Merchant Level Sales," which also had a fabulous turnout. The more than 70 attendees included MLSs, ISOs and sales managers. Topics addressed included developing a market niche, training a field sales organization, selling value-added applications, interchange and pricing, and selling Internet protocol-based solutions. Global Payments Inc.'s Greg Cohen, Optimal Payments' Matt Clyne, Steve Pavent, Humboldt Merchant Services' Ken Musante, New Edge Networks' Ray Solnik and Total Merchant Services' Matt Brown presented. WSAA's event closed out the 2005 tradeshow schedule, but planning for next year's meetings are already underway. Visit " www.greensheet.com/tradeshowschart.html " for a preview of the 2006 calendar.