OHMA Elects Focuspoint, Inc CEO as Chairman of the Board

Manassas, VA -- March 22, 2004 -- The International On Hold Messaging Association (OHMA) announced at its 4th Annual Conference in Las Vegas, that Creston M. Owen, President/CEO of Focuspoint, Inc in Manassas, VA was elected to be Chairman of the Board for 2004-2005.

The OHMA was established to assist Message On Hold companies internationally with promoting ethical and professional business practices and expanding awareness of the On Hold Messaging industry. Mr. Owen, an eight-year journeyman in this industry, takes over the reigns of an organization that supports over 70 members from coast to coast and across the oceans. Otto Merghut, current Chairman of OHMA and President of Profit On Hold in Metarie, LA, believes this is one of the fastest growing industries in the country and said, “We are excited to have a dynamic individual like Mr. Owen to lead us into, what we believe will be, a record setting year for this 20+ year old industry.”

“I am honored and excited to help an organization that is the leading force in this rapidly growing industry”, responded Mr. Owen. “With the support of our Vice Chair Jerry Brown, President of Business Voice in Toledo, OH, the OHMA Board of Directors, OHMA members and associate members, we look forward to enlightening the business community on the importance of this useful and informative marketing tool.”

Mr. Owen related several On Hold statistics. “Inbound/Outbound magazine states that on average, seven out of ten callers are placed on hold. Infomax, Inc advises us that callers stay on the line up to 25% longer when provided with On Hold Messaging versus ‘dead air’ or ‘background music’ and up to 17% longer than radio. Voice Response, Inc also tells us that 34% of callers who hang up will not call back.” Mr. Owen concluded, “With these type of statistics, the OHMA feels that with a message on hold service, businesses will better serve their clients and potential clients and increase profits”.