It may be a surprise to some, but emotions around an agency’s insurance software can be strong. Commitment to brands run deep. If you’ve been using a certain product for years, you’re hesitant to put your trust in something or someone new. Think iPhone vs. Android – it’s almost impossible for someone to switch camps. Independent insurance agencies face a similarly daunting task when thinking about switching management systems.
Wondering if it’s time to break-up with your management system? Check out our eGuide on signs it’s time to let your management system go.
Along with the pain of ending a long-standing relationship, the uncertainties surrounding the new relationship can be difficult. A management system may have the capabilities an agency needs, but what about the provider? Will they live up to expectations? Building trust, following through on commitments, and making a successful transition are all responsibilities borne by the new software company.
When an agency commits to a new provider, many experience a “what did I just do?” moment. They feel burdened with learning a new system, adapting their workflows, and building a new partnership. The weight of these uncertainties forms clouds of doubt.
Successful Transition Tips
As a National Account Manager at Strategic Insurance Software, I focus on guiding agencies through this seemingly ambiguous transition period. One of the best parts of my work is building trust with agency staff – being the friendly face to validate anxieties, answer questions, and instill confidence. My goal is to get an agency back to working as – and in most cases more – efficiently than before.
In my experience, successful transition requires:
- Walking “shoulder to shoulder” with agency staff, especially during data conversion and post-implementation
- Enabling individuals to let go of the “old way”
- Providing staff buy-in on new systems and operations
- Encouraging patience and a willingness to try something new
Change as an Agent for Growth
When preparing agencies for change, I use the analogy of being suspended in the air between two trapezes. Letting go doesn’t mean you’re falling – you’re grasping something new and moving forward.
I take pride in helping agencies grab the next trapeze to grow their agency. It takes hard work, patience and willingness to make a change. But, when someone has their “aha!” moment, there is a great degree of satisfaction. Letting go can feel uncertain, but it’s the only way to the other side. I’ll meet you there.
SIS is proud to have led hundreds of conversions from over twenty different agency management systems. To learn more about SIS’s comprehensive StartRight implementation process contacts us at [email protected] or 800.747.7005, Option 6.
Jake Thaxton, Director of Client Services joined SIS in 2012 and has helped transform Client Services into a cohesive, effective team that supports our clients daily use of Partner Platform. Known for his professionalism and software knowledge Jake has been instrumental in driving client experience success, leading a team that delivers world class customer support for ongoing issue resolution in the most efficient and effective ways.
Jake graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a major in Business Economics. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, traveling and golfing.