Frequently Asked Questions
What is ShowConnect?
ShowConnect is a community based event management system (EMS) for equestrian related shows and events. Event management systems are used to run an event and contains modules such as of event setup, registration, entry management, scheduling, scoring, accounting, payments, communications, reporting, etc. ShowConnect is not an online entry system, but is built to allow for manual entries and imports from third-party entry systems, such as USEA Xentry.
Who runs ShowConnect?
The United States Eventing Association is the organizational steward for the ShowConnect platform. The goal of this stewardship is for the ShowConnect partners and system users to drive future development goals and for ShowConnect to become a hub to support the equestrian community.
Why ShowConnect Event Management System?
Though there are many who are satisfied with their current management solution, the USEA was charged by its Board of Governors to evaluate the current market for cost-effective, reliable and modern tools. After considering many options, the USEA found the most cost-effective solution was to develop a new event management system that considered these requirements at the start, supporting a viable future forward system that will last for years to come. This new product has been developed in partnership with Jockey Club Technology Services firm with many years of experience in creating equestrian management systems.
Does the software have all the features I need?
The software has been designed with the input of multiple secretaries, scorers, event organizers and other interested parties. What we have learned through the process is that everyone runs a show a little differently. Though the software may do some tasks differently, ShowConnect will support everything that is required to run an event. It has basic features of of event setup, registration, entry management, scheduling, scoring, accounting, payments, communications, reporting, etc. It also has enhanced features that don’t need to be used but are available to every event. The USEA is also committed to continue making changes to adapt this software to its users.
What does this system deliver that isn’t already in the market?
ShowConnect is designed with the future in mind. The system will provide the critical features you need to register, schedule, and score an event, but also provide many additional features to all sized events that would not be cost effective by any other means. It’s designed to allow the flow of information and transactions securely in real-time to and from the people and organizations who interact with your event. With companion apps, events can enable real-time communications, registration changes, purchases, or account reconciliations to and from your participants via smartphones or other devices. The system is modular and will allow custom scoring solutions for the types of events you might run in the future. ShowConnect represents an investment in the database of riders, horses, and owners and their detailed performance metrics, as well as the tools needed to update, maintain, and securely share this valuable database with trusted partners, such as the USEF and FEI, in the future.
Will ShowConnect be required at all USEA recognized events??
No. ShowConnect will be used by many events, but there is no requirement to use it. ShowConnect is being developed to fill a need for many events that have express a desire for cost-effective, reliable and modern tools, supporting a viable future forward system that will last for years to come. The USEA is aware that lots of events are content with their current system provider. It is expected that current vendors will continue to offer their software and secretary services.
What is the cost to use Show Connect?
Show Connect is fully supported by the riders and events that use it and not through membership dues. ShowConnect platform will be free for any events registered with the USEA for at least the first two years.
What type of support will ShowConnect provide?
A variety of support options will be provided to ShowConnect users and its partners. ShowConnect will maintain an interactive documentation and support website with ticketing, forum and chat services. Additionally, ShowConnect will monitor phone calls through a network of community experts and staff to support the important days of the planning, preparing and carrying out a successful event. ShowConnect will also maintain standard office hour support through the USEA, Monday through Friday, 9:00AM to 5:00PM ET and a 24/7 critical operations support through Jockey Club Technology Services.