BIP Spring 2025

“Businesses that actively involve employees from the start are more likely to thrive,” she says. Consistent and accurate data entry is vital, whether handled by staff, outsourced or managed by temporary help hired to transition data from a simple spreadsheet into an AMS. Kanter adds, “An AMS is only as good as the information you provide it.” 4 Evaluate scalability and integration Both industry veterans stress the importance of scalability. “You don’t want a one-trick pony,” says Marrujo. “Ensure the platform can grow with you or customize as your needs evolve.” Whether it’s integrating with e-signature platforms, email tools or commission-tracking software, compatibility is key. Kanter advises brokers to “avoid decision paralysis” by narrow ing down options to three or four platforms. “Ask your peers who they use, then schedule demos, free trials, and compare features like cloud stor age, document handling and reporting,” he says. 5 Invest in training and support Training and support can make or break the AMS experience. Look for systems with acces sible and timely customer service and training resources to empower your team. “There are great platforms out there, but if your team isn’t tech savvy and can’t access support when needed, it’s a problem,” Marrujo says. 6 Think long-term Kanter emphasizes the importance of select ing an AMS with future goals in mind. “If you ever plan to sell your agency, a well-implemented AMS is critical,” he says. “It provides potential buyers with organized data and makes the transi tion seamless.” Marrujo agrees, underscoring the importance of avoiding data migration headaches later. “Importing everything into a new platform down the line can be a nightmare. Plan ahead to save yourself time and stress.” By defining the agency’s needs, involving staff and focusing on scalability, brokers can set them selves up for long-term AMS success. “Your time is valuable,” says Marrujo. “Invest in tools that make your life easier and allow you to focus on what you do best.”