iPipeline has launched a major new addition to its SolutionBuilder platform that promises to “transform” the protection advice process by delivering more accurate indicative quotes and underwriting decisions upfront.

Developed over two years in collaboration with The Openwork Partnership, the new Advanced Underwriting feature is designed to tackle long-standing adviser frustrations over unreliable quotes and the lack of predictability in the application journey.

It captures detailed information on the 20 most common medical disclosures, which account for around 80% of medical loadings and term changes, allowing for significantly improved quote precision at the outset.

From 17 June, Advanced Underwriting will be available exclusively to advisers within The Openwork Partnership, with a wider rollout planned for later in the year.

The Exeter, Vitality and Zurich are supporting the launch, with three more insurers due to join the panel in the coming months.

Rachel Edwards, senior vice president and UK managing director at iPipeline, said the current quote-to-application journey was “opaque, interrupted, and delayed,” often resulting in lost opportunities due to untrustworthy initial quotes.

“Advanced Underwriting has been developed to change that, offering a much more seamless process that works better for everyone concerned,” she said.

“By collaborating closely with The Openwork Partnership and their leading protection advisers, we have ensured it addresses adviser issues and provides them with a user-friendly enhancement that benefits both them and their clients.”

Paul Shearman, mortgage and protection proposition director at The Openwork Partnership, said the new tool represented a major step forward in tackling a key pain point in the protection market.

“Improving quote accuracy, reliability, and transparency from the beginning is a significant step forward in helping clients get the cover they need, faster and with greater confidence,” he said.

“The feedback we’ve had from our advisers who watched a demonstration of Advanced Underwriting has been unanimously positive. It will drive greater efficiency, and most importantly, create better client outcomes.”

He urged other providers to follow the example of the early adopters, warning that those who hesitate risk being left behind.

Advanced Underwriting is powered by iPipeline’s SSG Digital platform and is intended to reduce the volume of repeat or abandoned applications by providing advisers and clients with a clearer view of potential underwriting outcomes from the outset.

According to the firm, this increased transparency will build trust and help ensure clients receive the most appropriate cover more quickly.