Zurich has integrated the online application of goal:technology, Focus’ XML data capture software, into its IFA extranet - ZIFAweb, to provide an online solution for IFAs to transact new business electronically.
Zurich’s new ZIFAweb service went live in early 2004 and it is already receiving new business electronically through this route.
Zurich has been able to redeploy electronic products on ZIFAweb that it had previously built, using goal:technology, for use on the IFA portals, enabling it to extend their initial return on investment.
Tony Solomon, Distribution Communications Director commented;
“The ability to offer the electronic submission of business is essential to Zurich IFA Group and our IFA customers. Also, a consistent technology platform across the business for electronic trading gives us a degree of self sufficiency as we are able to react to both internal and external change requirements quickly, giving us a considerable advantage in a competitive market. ”
John Streets, Chief Executive, Focus Solutions added;
“We have now implemented 6 extranets using goal:technology that are built to the same industry standards (ISML) as electronic products for the IFA portals. This contract is great news for Focus and reaffirms our message to the market that electronic products can be built once using goal:technology and then redeployed across multiple distribution channels. Zurich now uses goal:technology for electronic trading in four of its channels to market including extranet, IFA portals and their Point of Sale solution for non-regulated business used by its direct and tied agent sales teams.”
Products live on the new online ZIFAweb service include Investment Bonds, ISAs and Term Assurance. The new service is available to any IFA that has Internet access at www.zifaweb.co.uk.
