Insurers Help Agents With Technology

By Mark E. Ruquet

NU Online News Service, Jan. 15, 3:02 p.m. EST?Several major insurance companies have announced recent developments in their online technology systems that should make doing business for independent agents a little easier.

Kemper Insurance Companies, based in Long Grove, Ill., said it will be launching enhanced Internet capabilities aimed at supporting its small business program and making available the company's other products and resources.

Kemper's Ecquire is designed to allow agents to apply for business owners' policies and umbrella policies online and receive quotes. This is the first step to expanding the system to allow agents to apply for additional commercial policies online, Kemper said.

Agents working with the Kemper program can access the system over the Internet and do not need to download special software product, said David Smolensky, senior manager, integrated communications.

He said the program is rolling out now as agents are being trained in how to use access the program.

In early February, Kemper plans to release E-Guide, its online information source for products, services and programs, Mr. Smolensky said.

The site is www.kemperinsurance.com.

American International Group, headquartered in New York City, said its international property-casualty division, American International Underwriter's, has launched online claims reports.

The Web site, www.aiu.com, enables consumers, commercial clients and risk managers to submit claims online. Local claims specialists will manage the claims, the company said.

AIG said users would also be able to access information about products and insurance lines by product and country. Visitors will also be able to obtain contact information on AIG member companies, country-specific information and news, and worldwide financial and insurance industry news.

Branchville, N.J. based Selective Insurance Group, Inc., announced earlier this month it has totally revamped and redesigned its Web site to be more user friendly for agents, customers, investors and the media.

Among the new features are online claim filing and bill-paying capabilities; software and product updates for agencies; log-in capabilities to other Web sites for agent's; ratings, financial results and other company information; and direct links to Selective's subsidiaries.

The site is www.selective.com.

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Insurers Help Agents With Technology

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