ECi Software Solutions has named David Collyer as VP of global customer experience. With Fort Worth, Texas-based ECi soon to be parent to JobBoss, Macola and Max, no one should be surprised the company is ramping up its management ranks.

Xero has introduced a series of products, including the Xero HQ open practice platform. It described as the platform as "an integrated multi-vendor platform for accountants and bookkeepers to run their entire back office". That includes nine practice applications for bookkeepers and accountants.

Encore Business Solutions of Winnipeg, Manitoba, has acquired Seattle, Wash.-based Fine Solutions. Terms were not disclosed. The deal, which involves two Dynamics resellers, gives Encore offices in Seattle, Portland, Ore., and Vancouver, B.C.

Last week, I spent time photograph egrets hunting for frogs and other fresh-water prey. A littler further down the river was a group of vegan egrets looking for tofu without much luck.