With the advent of ‘M Day' in November 2004, 1st has developed a solution which assists both advisers and Networks in dealing with the new regulatory requirements. Working with Mortgage Support Network (MSN) 1st has designed Mortgage Adviser, a smart client application, which takes advantage of the full power of Microsoft .NET and can be used both online and offline.

The Mortgage Adviser application prompts mortgage brokers to ask the right questions during the application process and ensures compliance by capturing all required information before submission. Cases include electronic copies of all relevant documentation such as factfind, reasons why, quotes and proposals. Once complete, they can be electronically submitted to Head Office. The case is automatically frozen, creating an easy to follow, compliant audit trail both at Head Office and locally. Any changes required by Head Office are recorded separately so that the original record of submission is preserved.

Key Features and Benefits

• Client Management which pre-populates contact information throughout the sales process including quotes and proposals removing the need for any data re-keying.
• Case Management that provides user friendly defined workflow process including mandatory data capture, ensuring adherence to business processes and compliance requirements
• Date and time stamped audit trails to allow for confirmation of a compliant advisory process
• General and product specific fact-finds allowing a comprehensive picture of a client's needs to be built up
• Document storage including documents produced either during the advice process or externally for a complete client history for audit purposes
• Mortgage and General Insurance sourcing links for efficient processing
• Message Centre for effective two way communications with Head Office
• Customisable desktop allowing flexibility to meet adviser's needs

This solution is ideally suited to networks wishing to control and monitor their sales following regulation, as well as the larger broker market where advisers can work on or off-line.