Highlights from the Applied Client Network Toronto Summit

The Applied Client Network (ACN) Summit in Toronto was organized to equip brokerages with essential tools and insights for success in the evolving insurance industry. The two-day event gathered Canadian insurance professionals and provided the opportunity for attendees to hear expert talks, discuss digital forces driving their business strategy, learn Canadian-specific solutions, and network with brokerage peers.

We appreciate the ACN and their partnership for organizing such a meaningful event for Canadian users. Let's highlight some of the key sessions from the event and expand on what attendees brought back to their offices.

Users Helping Users Secure the Future - Vetting AI Solutions for Privacy and Security Risks and Delivering Exceptional Customer Experiences: Dave Vetuschi, Director of Information Technology from Lawrie Insurance Group, led attendees through an informative session about understanding AI-specific risks and mitigation strategies. He emphasized the importance of AI privacy and security and provided a vetting tools list. Dave encouraged people to be proactive, foster discussions, and encouraged questions around AI solutions. Other sessions focused on the new era of customer service with AI. Attendees learned examples of how integrating AI into the insurance lifecycle can enhance customer engagement and deliver superior service that maximizes the brokerage brand and value proposition.

Optimizing the Product Roadmap - Insights from the Product Team: Lindsay Stradeski, Principal Product Manager at Applied Systems Canada, took the stage with Danielle Fiola-Robles. They highlighted various recent and upcoming product innovation initiatives, including some key underutilized features in Applied Epic® that are value drivers. This session shared insights into the Canadian commercial lines journey and strategies to streamline operations.

Canadian Market Update: Steve Whitelaw, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Applied Systems Canada, provided an update on what's shaping the Canadian market’s investment strategies and opportunities, the forces pushing the industry into the next generation of insurance, and how businesses can adapt to and capitalize on changes in a rapidly evolving environment. He also discussed the continued success of the Humber College Post Graduate Program as brokers look to recruit or upskill their team members from it.

Harnessing AI for Growth - Safe and Strategic Implementation: The ACN's keynote speaker Daniel Metcalf, Co-founder and President at Cyberfin, told attendees their story about using AI and explained practical ways to leverage AI for growth. He noted that staying safe while using this technology is crucial. Attendees took home knowledge on AI cybersecurity starter kits and best practices for leveraging AI safely.