Most IFAs now have internet access and are now waiting for providers to develop systems that will al...
Most IFAs now have internet access and are now waiting for providers to develop systems that will allow online transactions, according to Swiss Life.
Over 750 IFAs replied to a survey carried out by the insurer on the use of technology to market products, and 69% said they now use comparison portals to obtain individual protection quotes. Only 19% still use the telephone.
The survey found that 95% of IFAs have access to the internet and over half now have their own website. Most said that they use the site to give information and advice, but importantly, a number said that are now receiving quote requests from clients this way.
The concerns expressed by the respondents included whether there will be a sufficiently wide range of providers using technology to allow IFAs to offer the best advice, standards and consistency to clients.
Martin Fothergill, IFA communications manager at Swiss Life, said: 'The fact we had such a high response rate means this is an area that IFAs are interested in and are conversant with. It underlines the importance of portals to IFAs as a means of offering quotes.
'The survey told us that there is a high level of awareness among IFAs of the issues regarding full online processing.'
