Independent agents are a significant revenue source for carriers,
accounting for 62.2% of all P&C insurance and 87% of commercial
lines written premium, according to the Big “I” 2024 Market Share
Report. Despite this, carriers don’t always prioritize making
processes as efficient and user-friendly for agents as they do for
policyholders. In today’s market, agents increasingly demand tools
and workflows that simplify their work, enhance their efficiency,
and foster seamless collaboration with underwriters.
Operational efficiency is central to a positive agent experience.
Clunky systems, redundant tasks, and communication bottlenecks waste
time that could be better spent building relationships and closing
sales. Transparent communication is equally important—agents need
visibility into the underwriting process to track submissions,
understand what’s required, and avoid delays. Open dialogue and
transparency reduce friction, ensuring smoother interactions between
carriers, agents, and customers.
Agents’ expectations for technology have evolved dramatically. They
now demand systems as intuitive as the apps on their phones. Speed
and efficiency are critical—if one carrier can generate quotes twice
as fast as another, agents will gravitate toward the quicker option.
Delays in the quoting process can result in lost opportunities, as
prospective clients often choose the carrier that can respond first.
A fast, streamlined quoting process doesn’t just improve
convenience; it directly impacts agents’ ability to close deals and
serve their clients effectively.
Carriers can address these demands by engaging with providers that
streamline the application process, like DataCrest. A process with
features such as pre-filled renewal data, customizable workflows,
and personalized dashboards for brokers and underwriters. By
eliminating redundant data entry and ensuring complete, accurate
submissions, DataCrest reduces delays and enhances productivity.
Additional features like e-signatures, secure document delivery, and
faster quoting provide agents with a frictionless experience that
aligns with their expectations for modern technology.
Data-driven insights are another game-changer for agents. Advanced
analytics empower them to identify cross-selling opportunities,
tailor policy recommendations, and deliver more value to their
clients. These capabilities help agents differentiate themselves in
a competitive market while driving greater revenue for carriers.
Ultimately, carriers that invest in improving the agent experience
will reap the rewards. By equipping agents with intuitive
technology, efficient workflows, and clear communication, insurers
can strengthen agent partnerships, boost retention rates, and grow
their bottom line. As competition intensifies, making the agent
experience a strategic priority is no longer optional—it’s
essential.
Works Cited
Rodriguez, M. (2024, June 28). Independent agencies hold strong amid
hard market . Retrieved from
Business Mag.