What’s New: In Brief (November 11, 2008)

Compu-quote has teamed-up with E2Value to release a new insurance-to-value (ITV) tool, ezITV.
Compu-Quote previously worked with MSB to provide brokers with the insurance-to-value (ITV) tool RCT EvaluRater. But recently MSB announced that, as of Dec. 31, 2008, it would discontinue supplying its engine component to Compu-Quote.
Since 2002, the Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (IBAO) has distributed E2Value’s ITV tool (now known as MCV Costworks calculator, but formerly known as RS Means) as an alternative tool to the RCT EvaluRater.
ezITV is an integration of Compu-Quote’s data-gathering technology and E2Value’s cost engine. The new desktop application is fully integrated into PropertyRater.
“The RS Means format is by no means a stranger to brokers,” Randy Carroll, IBAO CEO, said in the release, “but we are nevertheless working with Compu-Quote in the development of a conversion tool that would allow for a smooth transition between the two products [ezITV and RS Means].”
Brokers have the opportunity to test drive ezITV free of charge until Dec. 31 at which time it will become the default ITV tool through PropertyRater.

McLarens Canada has opened four new locations in Ontario.
Lynn Brantnall has been appointed branch manager for the new Gravenhurt location.
C. Keith Wright has been appointed branch manager of the new Kingston location.
Cathy Grant-McDowell has been appointed branch manager of the new Sault Ste. Marie location.
Effective immediately, McLarens Canada has acquired Szypka, Welton & Associates in Bolton. George Szykpka has been appointed branch manager for the location.