In 1997, an independent User Group managed by EPRI and supported by Black & Veatch was formed to ensure the continued viability of the Coal Quality (CQ) product line by providing direction and funding for maintenance and enhancement of CQIM and the subsequent products. In 1998, the User Group initiated definition and development of a new generation of coal quality impact model to meet the changing needs of the electric generation industry. This new model, Vista, provided CQIM technical capability using Windows. Vista has since been significantly enhanced, with new versions released three times per year.

The Vista User Group is a key contributor of funding for Vista. As a result of this funding arrangement and to encourage growth of the Vista User Group, membership is a requirement for obtaining Vista and all subsequent program releases. Membership is $12,500 per year (with renewal at $11,500) and provides User Group meeting attendance, user support, and periodic releases that include maintenance updates and enhancements. A license fee may be required in addition to User Group membership to obtain Vista.

The User Group meetings are held annually in January or February, and information on the upcoming and prior User Group meetings can be found on this site. All current and prospective members of the Vista User Group are encouraged to attend. Please Contact Us for more information.