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Two claims scenarios show value of electronic processing

by Sharon Cunningham
in American Agent & Broker
January 2002 issue

(excerpts reprinted with permission.)

Consider two scenarios, both of which describe the different paths that agency staffs follow when they receive and process an insurance claim from one of their clients. A broker's claims representative gets a call from a client. One scenario uses some technology in places; the second has a more integrated work and customer management system to support the Staff and their customers. Using electronic files also improves customer service. Because the claims rep does not have to leave his desk to find files, make photocopies and fax documents, he can take more customer calls. With information at his fingertips, he doesn't have to call clients and carriers repeatedly. If someone else needs to work at his desk, that person can find documentation and follow-up and assure clients that transactions will be taken care of. Today's consumers want immediate service, are accustomed to completing transactions over the phone and expect processors to have information on hand to answer their questions. Agency staff working with a complete, fully functioning database can provide immediate service to their customers. Implementing electronic processing takes time and effort. Improved customer service, better retention of business and additional sales make it worth the effort.

The complete article is available at www.agentandbroker.com/FSG/AgentBroker/Departments/Automation.htm

Sharon Cunningham is president of Business Management Group, a management consulting firm based in Hartford, Conn. BMG provides a variety of services, including electronic file implementation and emergency preparedness planning. She can be reached at (800) 772-0208 or at scunningham@bmgconsulting.com.