A version of this article originally ran in the 2019 print issue of Connections, “Embracing the Digital Agency.”
It’s hard to believe that my fourth Applied Net has come and gone. Each year, our amazing community continues to raise the bar and inspire my team and I into the year ahead. With its largest attendance in history, at over 4,200 participants, this year’s conference was further proof that our “network” continues to grow. That growth only propels our goal to offer you — our Applied Client Network (ACN) members — new and innovative programs, ensuring you are able to make the most of your Applied Systems software.
Like everyone I’ve met through serving this organization, I too have my own run-ins with technology. On a recent business trip to upstate New York, I rented a car to drive to my hotel and quickly discovered a chance to learn “what’s new” when I was given a hybrid vehicle. Through learning the ins and outs of this unfamiliar automobile, I couldn’t help but relate it back to what our members are constantly sharing: Despite all the advances Applied Systems software brings to the insurance industry, if you do not know how to best use the its applications (which are, quite literally, your fingertips), then you will have a hard time getting your agency or brokerage moving in the right direction at a pace that allows you to remain at the top of your game.
The reality is, in this day and age, the pace of change is faster than it has ever been before. That’s why we at Applied Client Network are embracing the change that is happening across the industry and making things that might seem complex simple so that it works for you and your teams.
You are not in this alone because ACN is here to help. ACN is your source to help the agency or brokerage you run navigate it all. For more than 30 years of “users helping users,” ACN has been the leading source of education, networking and advocacy for Applied Systems agencies and brokerages, improving operating efficiencies, client service and profitability for our members across the globe.
From my team to yours, we look forward to the continued growth and prosperity of ACN, and to finding ways to serve you better through programs like our all-new Learning Center, Advantage membership and others on the way. I am very excited for what 2020 will bring!
As we reflect on 2019, here are some of the most-read articles from Connections that I recommend you check out in the lead-up to the new year: