As independent insurance agencies brace for the challenges and opportunities of 2025, leveraging the right technology and expertise is crucial. From navigating regulatory updates to adopting cutting-edge automation tools, agencies using Vertafore products need an IT partner who understands their unique needs.

At Archway Computer, we’re proud to be a Vertafore Orange Partner, providing tailored IT services to help agencies thrive in an ever-evolving industry. With decades of experience working exclusively in insurance technology, we ensure your agency is equipped to meet compliance standards, improve efficiency, and embrace the future with confidence.

Meeting the Challenges Ahead for Vertafore Agencies

1. Navigating Regulatory Changes with Ease

The insurance industry continues to face a patchwork of state and federal regulations, such as 1033 waivers, licensing updates, and stringent cybersecurity laws like New York’s Cybersecurity Regulation (23 NYCRR 500). These changes demand robust systems and processes.

Archway supports Vertafore agencies by:

• Ensuring your technology aligns with regulatory requirements, including data protection and cybersecurity protocols.
• Simplifying compliance through proactive system management and monitoring.
• Providing tools that reduce complexity, helping your agency meet licensing and credentialing requirements efficiently.

2. Optimizing Vertafore Products for Efficiency

Vertafore tools are critical for your agency’s operations. We specialize in ensuring these systems work seamlessly within your infrastructure by offering:

• Proactive IT Management: Keeping your Vertafore systems updated and running smoothly.
• Customized Support: Addressing issues specific to your management tools, whether it’s AMS360 or other Vertafore solutions.
• Scalable Services: As your agency grows, our IT solutions adapt to meet increasing demands.

3. Enhancing Agency-Carrier Connectivity

Improved communication and connectivity between agencies and carriers are essential for efficiency and compliance. Archway helps Vertafore agencies streamline operations by:

• Supporting integration of tools that enhance onboarding, appointment tracking, and renewals.
• Implementing technologies like Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to reduce manual processes and minimize errors.
• Strengthening your agency’s ability to manage compliance data across jurisdictions.

4. Embracing AI and Automation

The rise of AI in insurance presents opportunities to transform processes, from fraud detection to customer service. Vertafore agencies can leverage these tools to stay ahead of the curve. Archway helps by:

• Integrating AI solutions to complement your Vertafore systems, improving operational efficiency.
• Ensuring secure implementation of automation tools to maintain data integrity.
• Providing ongoing support as your agency adopts new technologies.

Why Vertafore Agencies Trust Archway Computer

As a Vertafore Orange Partner, we are uniquely positioned to understand the challenges agencies face. Our expertise in Vertafore products and deep knowledge of the insurance industry mean we deliver solutions that align with your goals.

With over 30 years of experience, Archway has supported hundreds of independent agencies, helping them navigate compliance, enhance technology, and grow their business.

Ready to Optimize Your Vertafore Systems?

Archway Computer is here to support your agency with IT solutions designed specifically for Vertafore users. Let’s work together to ensure your technology is secure, efficient, and ready for the demands of 2025.

Schedule a call with Brad Ruben today to learn more about how Archway can help your agency thrive.

How Archway Computer Supports Applied Epic Users

As an Applied Systems Preferred Consultant Partner, Archway Computer is uniquely positioned to help insurance agencies maximize their investment in Applied Epic®. With decades of experience supporting insurance agencies exclusively, we provide tailored IT support and technology solutions to ensure your agency operates efficiently and securely.

Applied Systems has carefully selected Preferred Consultant Partners like Archway for our in-depth knowledge of their portfolio, direct access to Applied Epic, and ongoing participation in exclusive training sessions and webinars with Applied’s Customer Success team. This partnership enables us to deliver informed, proactive, and expert support for Applied Epic users.

Here’s how Archway Computer helps your agency unlock the full potential of Applied Epic.

The digital marketing landscape for insurance agencies is rapidly evolving, and staying ahead requires a solid understanding of emerging trends. For 2025, a strong focus on social media, website optimization, SEO, PPC advertising, email marketing, and AI-driven tools will help your agency attract and retain clients. Let’s explore how to leverage these strategies effectively.

1. Social Media: Go Beyond the Basics

Social media remains a powerful tool for connecting with potential clients and building trust. But in 2025, simply having a presence on platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram won’t cut it. You need to create engaging, shareable content tailored to your audience.

What to Focus On:

• Use short-form videos and stories to simplify complex insurance topics.
• Leverage LinkedIn for professional connections and B2B outreach.
• Run localized ads on platforms like Facebook and Instagram to target specific communities.

Pro Tip: Experiment with new platforms, such as TikTok and Threads, to reach younger demographics entering the insurance market.

2. Your Website: The Hub of Your Digital Strategy

Your website is the digital storefront for your insurance agency. In 2025, user experience (UX) and functionality will be more critical than ever. A slow, outdated website will not only frustrate visitors but also hurt your SEO ranking.

What to Focus On:

• Optimize for mobile-first experiences, as most traffic comes from smartphones.
• Use clear call-to-actions (CTAs) like “Get a Quote” or “Book a Consultation.”
• Invest in faster loading times and secure hosting.

Pro Tip: Incorporate live chat or chatbot features to provide instant support to visitors.

3. SEO: Dominate Local Search Results

Search engine optimization (SEO) is essential for insurance agencies to appear in local searches. In 2025, SEO strategies must prioritize localized keywords, high-quality backlinks, and relevant content.

What to Focus On:

• Optimize your Google Business Profile for local visibility.
• Create blog posts that answer FAQs, such as “How do I choose the best auto insurance?”
• Focus on voice search by using conversational keywords.

Pro Tip: Regularly update your website with fresh content to maintain SEO rankings and establish thought leadership.

4. PPC Ads: Precision Targeting for Immediate Results

Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising continues to be a cost-effective way to generate leads. In 2025, AI-powered ad platforms will enable hyper-targeted campaigns that maximize ROI.

What to Focus On:

• Run Google Ads targeting keywords like “best home insurance near me.”
• Use retargeting ads to reach visitors who didn’t convert on your site.
• Experiment with video ads on platforms like YouTube and Instagram.

Pro Tip: Allocate part of your budget to A/B testing ads to see what resonates most with your audience.

5. Email Marketing: Stay Top of Mind

Email marketing remains a cornerstone of client retention and lead nurturing. A well-executed email strategy ensures your agency stays relevant and trusted.

What to Focus On:

• Use segmented lists to send personalized emails based on client needs.
• Create value-packed newsletters with tips, insurance updates, and promotions.
• Automate follow-up emails for inquiries and policy renewals.

Pro Tip: Integrate email campaigns with your CRM to track client interactions and improve engagement rates.

6. Leveraging AI: Work Smarter, Not Harder

AI-driven tools are revolutionizing digital marketing, offering unparalleled personalization and efficiency. Insurance agencies can use AI to streamline workflows and improve customer experiences.

What to Focus On:

• Use AI chatbots to answer common questions and collect leads.
• Automate campaign reporting to track the performance of SEO, PPC, and email strategies.
• Analyze customer data to predict trends and identify upsell opportunities.

Pro Tip: Tools like Jasper and ChatGPT can help generate ideas for social posts, ad copy, and blog topics.

Stay Ahead in 2025 with a Tailored Digital Strategy

If your insurance agency isn’t fully utilizing digital marketing, you’re leaving growth opportunities on the table. At Archway Computer, we’ve helped countless insurance agencies build a comprehensive digital marketing strategy that delivers results. Whether it’s a website redesign, social media management, SEO, PPC, or email campaigns, our digital department has the expertise to take your agency to the next level.

Ready to take the next step? Book a Digital Strategy Consultation today with our expert digital team and make 2025 your best year yet!

As the insurance industry continues to evolve, cybersecurity remains a top priority for agencies in 2025. With increasing regulatory requirements, rising threats from cybercriminals, and the growing reliance on digital tools, ensuring your agency’s data and systems are secure is more critical than ever.

This checklist will help your agency assess and strengthen its cybersecurity measures to stay compliant, protect sensitive information, and maintain client trust.

2025 Cybersecurity Checklist

1. Review and Update Your Cybersecurity Policies

• Ensure your cybersecurity policies align with the latest regulations, such as New York’s Cybersecurity Regulation (23 NYCRR 500).
• Include clear protocols for incident response, data breach notification, and employee cybersecurity training.
• Regularly review and update policies to address new threats and industry standards.

2. Conduct a Comprehensive Risk Assessment

• Identify potential vulnerabilities in your systems and processes.
• Assess risks related to third-party vendors, remote work, and data storage.
• Prioritize high-risk areas for immediate action.

3. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

• Require MFA for all system access, especially for sensitive data and management systems like AMS360.
• Educate employees on the importance of MFA and how it protects against unauthorized access.

4. Encrypt Sensitive Data

• Use encryption for data at rest and in transit.
• Ensure all communications involving client information are secure, including emails and file transfers.

5. Perform Regular System Updates and Patching

• Keep all software, operating systems, and applications up to date to address known vulnerabilities.
• Automate updates where possible to ensure consistency.

6. Invest in Advanced Threat Detection

• Deploy tools that detect and respond to threats in real time, such as intrusion detection systems and endpoint protection.
• Monitor network activity for unusual behavior that may indicate a breach.

7. Strengthen Remote Work Security

• Use secure virtual private networks (VPNs) for remote access.
• Implement endpoint security measures on all devices used for work.
• Regularly audit remote work setups for compliance with your cybersecurity policies.

8. Conduct Employee Training

• Train staff on recognizing phishing attempts and other social engineering tactics.
• Emphasize the importance of strong passwords and secure practices.
• Hold regular refresher sessions to keep cybersecurity top of mind.

9. Test Your Incident Response Plan

• Conduct regular simulations of cyber incidents, such as ransomware attacks or data breaches.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of your response and make improvements as needed.

10. Partner with Experts

• Work with IT professionals who understand the unique cybersecurity challenges of the insurance industry.
• Ensure your IT partner provides proactive monitoring, compliance support, and tailored solutions.

Why Cybersecurity Matters in 2025

In addition to protecting sensitive client data, strong cybersecurity practices ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, minimize downtime, and safeguard your agency’s reputation. With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated, investing in robust security measures is a critical component of long-term success.

Need Help Strengthening Your Cybersecurity?

Ensuring your agency is secure and compliant doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By partnering with experts who understand the insurance industry, you can protect your business, meet regulatory requirements, and focus on growth.

Let’s make 2025 your most secure year yet. Schedule a call with our team today to learn more about how we can help your agency build a stronger cybersecurity foundation.

The insurance industry faces increasing pressure to meet strict compliance regulations, especially as cyber threats continue to evolve. For agencies like yours, falling behind could result in severe financial penalties, loss of client trust, and even legal action.

If your agency is unsure about its readiness for 2025 compliance requirements, now is the time to take action. The consequences of non-compliance are too significant to ignore—but the solutions are simpler than you might think.

Why Compliance Matters More Than Ever

1. Avoid Hefty Penalties

Regulators are cracking down harder than ever, and even minor compliance gaps could cost your agency thousands in fines.

2. Protect Your Reputation

A breach or non-compliance issue doesn’t just hurt your bottom line—it damages the trust your clients place in you to safeguard their sensitive data.

3. Stay Ahead of Industry Changes

Compliance regulations aren’t static; they evolve with the industry. Staying proactive means you’ll be ready for what’s next, not scrambling to catch up.

4. Minimize Cyber Risks

Non-compliance often goes hand-in-hand with weak cybersecurity practices, leaving your agency vulnerable to attacks that could cripple your operations.

What Happens If You Don’t Act?

• Client Data Breaches
  Hackers specifically target insurance agencies because of the sensitive information they handle. A breach could expose your clients’ data, leading to lawsuits and reputational damage.

• Operational Downtime
  Without proper compliance measures, a cyber incident could halt your operations, leaving your clients stranded and your business at a standstill.

• Lost Business Opportunities
  Clients and partners are increasingly demanding proof of compliance. Without it, you risk losing out to competitors who can demonstrate their preparedness.

How Archway Computer Can Help

Navigating compliance regulations doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Archway Computer, we’ve been helping insurance agencies like yours for over 30 years. We understand your unique needs and are here to make compliance simple, actionable, and effective.

Our Tailored Solutions Include:

• Compliance Readiness Assessments: We’ll evaluate your agency’s current state and pinpoint areas that need improvement.
• Cybersecurity Policy Development: We’ll help you establish clear policies to protect sensitive data and meet regulatory standards.
• Employee Training: Ensure your team is prepared with easy-to-understand, ongoing cybersecurity training.
• Incident Response Planning: Be ready for the unexpected with a tested plan to minimize downtime and impact.
• Ongoing Support: Stay compliant year-round with our proactive monitoring and support services.

Take the First Step Today

Compliance isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about protecting your business, your clients, and your future.

Schedule Your Free Cybersecurity Audit

We’ll review your current setup, identify potential risks, and provide tailored recommendations to bring your agency up to speed.

Don’t wait until it’s too late! Click the button below to book your free audit and start securing your agency today.

Book My Free Security Audit

Let us handle the tech so you can focus on growing your agency. Schedule your audit now, and take the stress out of compliance.

Overview

The April 2024 release of Applied Epic introduces a modernized approach to DMS Email. This update allows emails sent from Applied Epic to be authenticated using the agency or brokerage’s own domain, helping to reduce the chances of these emails being marked as spam. To achieve this, agencies and brokerages need to update their CNAME records.

Benefits

Applied’s new DMS Email solution enables agencies and brokerages with their own domains to authenticate DMS email traffic sent from Epic. This significantly reduces the likelihood of emails being flagged as spam by recipient email systems, ensuring smoother communication. The emails will be sent from your registered domain instead of the default mail.myappliedproducts.com (US) or mail.myappliedproducts.ca (CA) domain.

Steps to Authenticate Your Domain and Update CNAME Values

Note: This process requires the assistance of your IT Support Team to update the DNS server with the CNAME values provided.

1. Access the DMS Email Settings:

   • From the Epic Home screen, navigate to Configure > Job Management > DMS Email.
   • Select the relevant Agency.

2. Initiate Domain Authentication:

   • Check for the message stating “Email domain is NOT authenticated.”
   • Click the button below this message to Authenticate this Domain.
   • Edit the Agency mailbox and select Authenticate this Domain.

3. Update CNAME Records:

   • The Email Authentication Details screen will appear, displaying three CNAME Value hosts with corresponding values that need to be added to the domain’s DNS records.
   • Have your IT Support Team add these CNAME values to your DNS server.

4. Verify Authentication:

   • Once the CNAME values have been added, click Verify Authentication to launch the Authentication Check. This will confirm whether the authentication setup is successful.
   • Important Note: DNS changes can take time to propagate and may not be instant.

5. Finalize the Process:

   • On the main DMS Email screen, select Finish. If successful, the message “Email Domain is authenticated” will appear with a link to View Authentication Details.
   • This process must be repeated for each unique domain the agency or brokerage uses.

Additional Information

• Applied Epic does not store domain authentication details.
• If a domain has been authenticated in another database (e.g., Demo), it should not need re-authentication in the Production database.

Need Help? Contact Archway Computer

Updating your CNAME records and authenticating your domain can be a complex process, but Archway Computer is here to help. As an MSP specializing in independent insurance agencies, we have extensive experience with Applied Epic and can ensure your emails are properly authenticated to reduce the risk of being marked as spam.

Why Choose Archway Computer?

• Expertise: We know Applied Epic inside and out.
• Support: Our team can handle the technical details, so you don’t have to.
• Efficiency: We’ll make sure everything runs smoothly and efficiently.

Get Started Today! If you need assistance with authenticating your domain or updating your CNAME values, contact Archway Computer. Schedule a call with Brad Ruben, the owner of Archway Computer, to discuss best practices and advanced techniques to optimize your Epic browser’s performance and reliability.

Contact Us:

• Phone: (888) 361-9995
• Email: info@myarchway.com
• Schedule a Consultation: Book a Meeting

Let us handle the technical details so you can focus on what you do best—serving your clients.