19Dec - Jan - 2018insurance based on service quality, transparency, and control--not just price," says Schmelkin. Cake & Arrow built a first of its kind digital portal that allowed MetLife customers to quote, purchase, and customize auto insurance online, without an agent or representative. Backed by Cake & Arrows' expertise, MetLife was able to set a benchmark in mobile auto insurance quoting and buying.Resetting the Customer-Agent ExperienceMany carriers today are investing in their direct-to-consumer strategies as they aim to automate the entire insurance process from quoting and purchasing to renewals and claims management. While a focus on DTC strategy is critical, 90 percent of life insurance and annuities are still sold to customers through agents--an experience which continues to be inhibited by outdated IT systems and archaic digital tools. According to Schmelkin, one of Cake & Arrow's key areas of focus as an agency is in helping insurers modernize the agent-customer experience by designing simple, easy to use digital tools. Staffed with an eclectic group of researchers, visual designers, and product strategists, Cake & Arrow constantly strives to create a harmonious confluence between best-in-class technology and design and forward-thinking insurance practices. Additionally, recognized on multiple occasions as one of the best places to work in New York City, the company attracts a dynamic set of individuals and innovative thinkers. "We never settle for mediocrity. We are analytical and purposeful in our endeavors, addressing client requirements in a highly data-based and efficient way," remarks Schmelkin.In the months to come, the company is expanding its services beyond insurance to other areas of finance including working with clients and investing in its own R&D around blockchain and alternative payments. According to a report by Gartner, more than 50 percent of organizations will implement new business models by 2018, in an effort to refine their customer experience. Currently, enhanced customer experience is considered more profitable than sophisticated advertising or lowered price points, and an advanced customer experience program is perceived as essential for brand survival. Always staying ahead with innovation to improve its solutions, Cake & Arrow is also aligning with next-gen SaaS platforms that are at the leading edge of customer experience. "We see ourselves at the forefront of shaping powerful customer experiences by emerging as the de facto performance engine for the insurance industry," ends Schmelkin. Alex Schmelkinand Technology Solution Providers - 2017Mobile ApplicationsWe never settle for mediocrity. We are analytical and purposeful in our endeavors, addressing client requirements in a highly data based and efficient way
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