Tim Howell

Zurich has announced the launch of its ‘next generation’ adviser portal, incorporating a new online platform for life insurance quotes and applications.

Developed in conjunction with Omnium, UnderwriteMe and User Experience specialists Jade Software, the Zurich Adviser Portal also incorporates client management functionality and utilises the UnderwriteMe rules engine to significantly increase straight-through-processing rates.

An automated pre-assessment tool within the platform allows a simpler, faster process for obtaining indicative underwriting terms, further improving adviser and practice efficiency.

Offering the convenience of a single sign on facility, The Zurich Adviser Portal also allows advisers to request updates to policy details such as address and payment method, and offers real time tracking of their progress.

Commenting on the launch, Zurich’s Head of Propositions, Tim Howell, said that optimizing both the ease of use and processing speed had been paramount in the design and build of the portal, with significant efficiency improvements being achieved as a result.

“The quoting and application process can be one of the lengthiest and most complex aspects of implementing life insurance advice, and adviser feedback suggested that across the entire market there was much scope for improvement”, he said.

“Along with our partners Omnium, UnderwriteMe and Jade Software, we were able to tap into deep user insights about quoting software across the market to identify priority areas, such as side-by-side policy comparisons, navigation within applications and simplifying the process of adding and removing optional benefits.

Zurich Head of Digital Marc Fabris lead the Portal’s development, and oversaw an extensive program of adviser input at all stages.

“We conducted extensive beta testing with a panel of advisers and witnessed dramatic improvements in the information capture process, which saw higher overall completion rates and faster turnaround times”’ said Fabris.

“The resulting platform is, we believe, a market leader, and one that will not only aid practice efficiency, but will also enhance the client experience”, said Fabris.

The Zurich Adviser Portal replaces the existing ZLife platform, and desktop quoting software ZXpress which will be phased out over the coming months. Advisers will be able to log in using their existing ZLife login, at zurich.com.au/adviserportal

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