A new customised insurance system has been rolled out for the multinational vehicle finance and services provider DaimlerChrysler Services in SA. This forms part of the DaimlerChrysler Services strategy to widen value chain involvement and to deliver improved service levels to the DaimlerChrysler dealer network and the DC client base.
Decagon (Pty) Ltd, exclusive outsource manager to Daimler Chrysler Services, has been contracted by Compass Insurance Company Limited to facilitate the roll-out and provide portfolio and underwriting management on this business area. Dexdata Technologies has been tasked with providing the required technology solutions.
The system allows for instant insurance quotations to be obtained at the dealership for all DaimlerChrysler branded insurance products. The required underwriting conditions are enforced by the machine-controlled (wizard) front-end process and it allows the dealer to automatically produce the required documentation, such as the policyholder protection rules, etc, to ensure insurance regulation compliance. Various lookup tables ensure that accurate and correct information is captured and also assist the business manager at the dealership in completing the process speedily without having to memorise complex codes.
The technology has been developed locally. Twenty years` experience enabled DexData Technologies to apply proven and tested methodologies together with new technologies and customer needs without falling into the gimmick trap at the expense of customers. Data integrity, security and tested business continuity plans form part of the understanding DexData Technologies have of developing and administering mission-critical systems in the insurance industry.
DaimlerChrysler dealers across the country are linked via the DaimlerChrysler intranet to the application server provided by IT group DexData Technologies, part of the Dex Group of Companies. Internet connection with no other software required on the PC, allows connection from diverse desktop configurations at the various dealers. The application has been developed in Microsoft Visual Basic programming language and data is stored in a compatible database. The system utilises desktop applications such as print manager to facilitate printing and faxing. Once the quotation is accepted it is converted into a policy by capturing the additional information required for policy issue. All required policy documentation is produced and enables the new vehicle owner to leave the showroom with full vehicle cover and peace of mind.
Once the policy has been issued the information is loaded onto the policy administration system that facilitates premium collection, endorsements and claims. Detailed portfolio information is continually monitored to ensure trends are identified and products developed accordingly to the benefit of the policyholders. Policy and cover data is exchanged with areas where specialised value-added services are provided such as medical emergency assistance.
Says Jans Wessels, MD of DexData Technologies: "For instance, a client in need of comprehensive vehicle insurance can be provided with a total one-stop-shop solution at the point of sale. The business manager is able to provide the client instantly with a DaimlerChrysler branded insurance quote. In the second phase the client will even be able to choose the product that suits his needs best from a panel of insurers that make up DC Insurance.
"Market acceptance has been above expectations," says Wessels, "and dealers have migrated onto the system successfully. Customers who buy luxury vehicles want a one-stop service where everything is integrated."
He says DaimlerChrysler sets extremely high standards for branding of its products. The system as seen by the client and the salesperson has been set-up to accurately reflect the corporate identity of each brand.
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