IFAs must look to technology for 2012 - Aviva

The increased use of integrated technology systems and social media will be vital to the development of IFA businesses post RDR, Aviva has warned.

According to Aviva's latest Adviser Barometer one third (32%) of advisers say they are planning to increase their use of technology as a result of RDR and other regulatory changes.

Dean Lamble, director of distribution development at Aviva, said: "If they have not done it yet, advisers will need to identify their customer proposition so they can plan the right platform strategy for their business and choose which systems to implement as a matter of priority.

"Having the right platform coverage will be an important factor when demonstrating independent status post RDR."

Aviva added it expects 2012 will be the year when advisers get to grips with social media.

The Adviser Barometer found that in 2012, 48% of firms are planning to increase the amount of contact they have with clients via their website, and 36% are planning to increase their use of social media such as Twitter, Linkedin and Facebook, more than are planning greater use of email (30%).

Lamble added: "Adviser firms that have now implemented an integrated technology plan will be able to concentrate on growing their business in 2012, but for all those who are still finalising their strategy they will need to do both at the same time."