The human element: how ThreeFlow enhances broker-carrier relationships

Relationships matter in benefits placement

In the world of benefits, relationships are everything. Brokers and carriers have long depended on these partnerships to deliver value to employers. However, as the industry evolves, brokers find themselves balancing two priorities: maintaining strong carrier relationships while modernizing outdated processes.

The fear? That adopting technology could disrupt these crucial relationships. But at ThreeFlow, we believe the right technology should enhance these connections, not replace them. By removing inefficiencies, we empower brokers to work smarter and more efficiently, empowering them to actually foster even better relationships with carriers.

The problem with the process today

While technology has helped to make some advancements within the industry over the last several years, benefits placement today is still riddled with inefficiencies. Whether it’s handling new business or renewals, many brokers and carriers are still stuck using manual processes that slow everything down.

• Spreadsheets, emails, and 3-ring binders: These tools create messy version control, increase the chance of human error, and waste time chasing missing information.
• Tedious renewal processes: Many brokers struggle to keep track of their renewals, conduct RFPs, and manage carrier responses and negotiations using outdated communications in the thick of renewal season.

While everyone knows the system is outdated, many brokers don’t realize there’s an alternative that keeps their broker-carrier relationships intact while automating time-consuming processes.

Do it yourself vs. outsource: pros and cons

Option 1: do it yourself

Some brokers manage the benefits placement process in-house to retain full control over carrier relationships and client data.

• Pros: Brokers maintain ownership of decisions and leverage their internal expertise.
• Cons: Manual processes are time-consuming and prone to human error, and keeping track of multiple versions of client presentations can cause confusion and delays.

Real-world pain points: Brokers often struggle with version control, juggling dozens of emails and spreadsheets, and chasing down carriers for updates, all leading to stress and missed opportunities.

Option 2: outsource to a general agency (GA)

Many brokers turn to general agencies (GAs) to outsource parts of the placement process. GAs bring specialized expertise and lighten the workload—but this convenience comes at a cost.

• Pros: Less administrative work for brokers, and GAs position expertise that brokers may not have internally.
• Cons: Creates an intermediary between brokers and carriers, reducing control over decisions and carrier relationships, and creates exposure for increased premiums (by as much as 5%).

Real-world pain points: With a GA involved, brokers risk becoming too removed from carrier partnerships, potentially eroding the very relationships that drive success.

The third way: ThreeFlow

Now, there’s a better option with ThreeFlow. We’ve created a technology-first approach that delivers the efficiency brokers need without sacrificing the relationships that matter most.

Why choose ThreeFlow?

• Automation with control: ThreeFlow handles time-consuming backend tasks like renewal management and RFPs while keeping brokers in charge of carrier interactions.
• Streamlined efficiency: Our platform eliminates spreadsheet chaos and consolidates communications, so nothing gets lost in translation.

Fun fact: our name reflects our mission. “ThreeFlow” symbolizes enabling a smooth flow of information between brokers, carriers, and employers. With us, collaboration is central to what we provide, not optional.

Delivering efficiency without sacrifice

At ThreeFlow, we believe that automation and human connection go hand in hand.

• Automate without disconnecting: Our tools remove the manual effort from renewals and RFPs, but brokers stay fully involved in conversations with carriers. (Learn more about how we help brokers.).
• Fewer errors, better results: By automating processes, brokers reduce the risk of human error, gain better version control, and deliver more accurate, timely results. (Learn more about ThreeFlow Connect).
• Relationship enabler, not a replacement: ThreeFlow isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about strengthening broker-carrier relationships by removing the friction that slows down collaboration.

Arista Consulting Group reduced renewal processing time by 15% while increasing productivity by 25% by using ThreeFlow while maintaining better relationships with their carriers—no need to involve a GA.

The future of benefits placement is here

The industry’s current methods are outdated, but brokers don’t need to sacrifice their carrier relationships to modernize. With ThreeFlow, you can have the best of both worlds: efficiency without losing control or connection.

Say goodbye to spreadsheet chaos and intermediary distractions. With ThreeFlow, brokers stay in control, build stronger relationships with carriers, and focus on delivering the best possible outcomes for their clients.

Ready to experience a better way to work? Let’s connect and see how ThreeFlow can transform your benefits placement process today.