In an effort to expand agency and broker management system capabilities and meet the demand for online communication between agents and insurance consumers,
The acquisition of Artizan brings a number of software products into the Applied Systems fold including CSR24, which is the centerpiece of the deal, the company says.
CSR24 is designed to enable agents to offer their insureds agency-branded, online customer service, as well as on-demand access to their policy information. Additionally, CSR24 enables round-the-clock claims reporting on the Web and by phone, plus self-service elements, including the ability to print documents such as auto ID cards, policies and many additional documents stored on agency management systems, the company says.
“We heard the agent and broker community clamoring for secure 24/7 connection to their own customers, and we knew this was the next level of service we could provide for insurance professionals,” says Applied Systems Chairman and CEO James Kellner.
Applied Systems TAM, Epic and Vision all integrate with CSR24. Kellner says that common ownership between Applied Systems' solutions and CSR24 will foster development for even greater efficiencies and effectiveness. Additionally, he emphasized that Artizan will continue to develop and deliver solutions for agency and broker management systems from all technology vendors, not just those from Applied Systems.
In addition to CSR24, Artizan's products include InsWorld, an electronic publishing and communication service; certTrax, a Web-based system for reviewing and managing certificates of insurance for compliance; and WebServices for templated and customized agency or broker website design. Since the acquisition, Artizan has undertaken CSR24 testing to develop integration with broker management systems in Canada. Those integrations are targeted for later this year.
“Every agency and broker office is looking to make the most of existing sales and service operations,” Kellner said. “Artizan’s outstanding suite of products and services allows them to enhance the work they’re already doing every day with their agency and broker management systems.”
Artizan will maintain its Windsor, Conn.-based headquarters, as well as its development office in Phoenix. Additionally, the entire Artizan management team and staff remain in place.