Boston Software has introduced SinglePoint, a data-exchangesystem that makes it easy for independent agents to submitMassachusetts auto insurance applications to any carrier.SinglePoint creates a standard new-business-submission process thatconforms to the agent's workflow. Instead of making agents log inand out of carrier Web sites, SinglePoint lets agents transfercomplete rating data from WinRater auto rating software to an ACORDnew-business application.

Once the user selects the insurer, SinglePoint sends thecompleted ACORD application to the carrier's policy-processingsystem and returns a confirmation. The carrier receives the dataand maps it to the appropriate fields. Agents won't have to learndifferent workflows for different carriers or need to rekeycustomer information in multiple places.

Part of the new WinRater comparative auto rating software,SinglePoint was created in response to Massachusetts' auto managedcompetition. Users will be able to submit business to bothvoluntary carriers and the Massachusetts Auto Insurance Plan (MAIP)for assigned-risk policies.

"Given new workflow demands on agencies, a standardizedsubmission process is a necessity," says Charles Walsh, BostonSoftware director of sales and marketing. "Agents can't afford tospend all their time navigating in and out of various carriers'proprietary systems."