CSC announces the introduction of Breezeway, a collection ofcloud-based, Web-subscription services usable on multiple devicesand platforms that enable insurers to tap into offerings in asecure, highly-scalable environment.

CSC's first series of services in the Breezeway collectionprovides virtual agents with a desktop application built onForce.com, salesforce.com's enterprise cloud computing platform,and will support an array of multiline insurance agency functionsstarting with the electronic new business application service.

The offering provides agents and brokers with a link to carrierinsurance applications. It supports email, collaboration,electronic new business application management, and e-signature. Bythe end of the calendar year, it will incorporate services forcommission management, agent's portfolio management, agent'scustomer service, and customer self-service, while integrating withagency management and other ACORD-compliant systems.

Breezeway features user interfaces designed for tablets andhandheld devices, and any other device that accesses the Internetincluding traditional desktops and laptops, with no requirement todownload software. It enables straight through processing to speedwork and improve closure rates, with reduced costs and no capitaloutlay.

The initial service will focus on the new business applicationprocess through its standardized services, which help insurersgenerate more business by enhancing their relationships with theirdistribution channels.

Agents can submit customer applications to insurers through theservice using electronic application and automated service links tothird-party capabilities such as electronic signature. Breezewaycreates speed-to-service advantages including the efficientorchestration of business services and a framework of integrationcapabilities. Additionally, CSC can support insurers in their implementation of salesforce.com CRM applications and othercustom Force.com applications through CSC's Breezeway offerings,CSC's salesforce.com consulting practice supported by CSC'scertified salesforce.com development center.

“Cloud services are increasingly an option for accessing ITfunctionality and IT-enabled business processes, and they willchange the way buyers access and manage IT,” says Allie Young,Gartner vice president and distinguished analyst. “There are stillmany challenges in leveraging new cloud models, including the needto manage multiple components sourced from multiple suppliers toachieve end-to-end business solutions. Organizations interested inacquiring cloud services should apply the service value chain modelto their analysis of potential cloud offerings.”

“With traditional technologies, insurers are challengedwith developing a single point of contact for agents and theircustomers,” said Ray August, president of CSC's Financial ServicesGroup. “CSC's Breezeway eliminates that challenge, introducing anew way to connect and a better way to serve the customer.Breezeway provides insurance agents and brokers with the access toinsurance systems they need – whenever and wherever they need them,leading to improved flexibility and faster results.”