The American Shutter Systems Association, Inc. is a nonprofit organization founded in May of 1995. The ASSA is constantly conducting research, development and testing to ensure that their products comply with the stringent specifications of SBCCI and the Dade County Building Code.

Eastern Metal Supply, Inc. of Lake Worth, Florida, a supplier of aluminum extrusions had, along with small groups of customers, tested a "Big Bertha" accordion shutter. The cost of testing was approximately $20,000.00 for each group.

The "Big Bertha" system was tested and approved for buildings up to 30 stories in height. The product was originally designed for buildings but was considered too expensive for residential applications.

Greg Weekes, Vice President of EMS, Inc., scaled down the blade and engineered new components to make the accordion system affordable for residential use. Mr. Weekes also determined that if an association could be formed, only one set of tests would be required for each product. This would save each member time and a great deal of money. It took a few months, and many correspondence letters with the Dade County Building Department The "Little Bertha" (Economy system) was patented and tested at American Test Labs in Broward County, under the watchful eyes of Walter Tillet. The "Little Bertha" passed with flying colors and received Dade County product approval on August 25, 1995. It was then made available to the 53 companies that were members of the ASSA at that time. Currently the ASSA has over 80 members.

Since its approval, the "Little Bertha" system has been the best selling accordion shutter system in the State of Florida.