Features for Forms Users
eForms enable you to gather and transmit data faster, and facilitate straight-through processing. eForms are programmed to extract data straight into your agency management system. You can also use eForms through an insurer website.
Using eForms, insurers can receive more accurate data, shorten update cycles, and eliminate the possibility of errors due to manual data re-entry.
Because there’s more intelligence inside the form, it’s simple to use. You’ll be able to train staff more efficiently, which will free your time for other concerns.
Key eForms features include:
- Integrated Forms Instruction Guide (FIG): You don’t have to leave the screen for a separate help menu, PDF, or hard copy guide. Just place your mouse over any field, and the instructions for that field appear.
- More precise data capture: Fields such as Address are now separated into component parts, such as street, city, and state. This reduces free form text that needs human review.
- Forms Generation: Fully populated forms can easily be generated for use by insurer call centers and other account services.
- Overflow Capability: What if there are four fields for automobile information, but you need to cover five cars? The eForm can be configured to expand for additional data.
Features for Forms Developers
Previously, when ACORD forms were updated, developers had to re-program each time for each form. eForms contain a consistent XML format, and unique XML tags for each form field, called eLabels.
eLabels are applied consistently across all ACORD eForms. ACORD has done the mapping from the physical form fields to the eLabels, so you only build once. The latest updates to eForms can be downloaded and plugged into your systems.
An ACORD eForm file contains:
- the layout of the form
- an atomic definition of the fields
- the instructions for completing each field
- consistent labeling of the fields on the form (eLabels)
- consistent XML format for data extraction or population
The industry as a whole supports ACORD and the development of forms. Incorporating ACORD eForms into your products will help you stay current and compliant. And eForms save you the time and expense of creating and maintaining proprietary forms.
For information about the various forms programs ACORD offers, click here.