Information giant Experian has turned up the heat in the broker software market by launching e-series insurance, new internet-based systems for brokers and insurers.
The e-series is a web-enabled version of Experian's numerous information systems.
The crucial difference, however, is that it includes a new back office system for brokers and intermediaries.
Experian has been developing the back office application for two years.
The package will be marketed by Insurance Mall, a new software house headed up by ex-Penta men Dave Bard and Kevin Smith.
Experian's director of insurance services Sue Hall said: "e-series insurance brings together Experian's information and applications to deliver a real-time comparative quotation system for insurers."
e-series comprises Experian's core services. These include:
Until now, Experian's penetration of the UK general insurance software market has been hindered because it does not sell a back office for brokers and intermediaries.
The company hopes this will change with the launch of the new application, which features a back office.