What’s New at Plansight

Small group looks like the easy part of the book: one census, a handful of plans, a renewal that nearly builds itself. Then the client asks what a different buy-up would cost the nine people on option one, and the afternoon is spent in a spreadsheet nobody is billing for. Here's what the whole renewal looks like when the application builds it, from an empty record to elected plans in force.

Every renewal starts with someone retyping a carrier PDF into a spreadsheet. It doesn't show up on any org chart, and most agencies have never worked out what it costs them, but across a book of business in Q4, it adds up to weeks. Here's what changes when the reading is done for you, and what a policy audit catches before your client does.

With 2027 health insurance renewals projected to hit record highs, forward-thinking benefits brokers must pivot from reactive damage control to proactive client strategy. This guide breaks down a proven 3-step script to prep your clients before rate spikes land, along with the AI automation blueprint needed to scale this framework across your entire book of business.

Manual data entry inside benefits renewal workflows wastes valuable marketing capacity and exposes brokerages to severe compliance and error risks. Discover how SmartSheetingAI™ instantly extracts carrier document data into custom, presentation-ready Excel sheets, so your team can eliminate tedious retyping and focus on high-value client advisory work.

Adopting a true fiduciary standard can transform a benefits agency by turning total transparency into an undeniable competitive advantage. Learn how Ethos Benefits CEO Donovan Ryckis used fee-only compensation structures, pre-renewal disclosures, and strategic roster caps to eliminate broker conflicts and build unbreakable client trust.

Balancing rapid AI adoption with strict HIPAA compliance requires a disciplined framework for vetting new software vendors and health strategies. Learn how OneDigital's Chris Vanderwolk uses primary sources, Business Associate Agreements, and fast-follower strategies to protect employer clients without missing out on game-changing technology.

Manual RFP workflows waste hundreds of labor hours annually, introduce costly data errors, and cause brokers to lose business to faster competitors. Learn how purpose-built renewal automation compresses proposal preparation from hours to minutes so your brokerage can eliminate data entry and focus on high-value client strategy.

Scaling a technology platform without losing client touch requires balancing rapid execution with genuine responsiveness. Learn how Plansight CEO Weston Lunsford uses humility and weekly feedback loops to transform user input into meaningful product innovations without overcomplicating software features.

The days of the "no-shop" renewal are over, and most agencies aren't ready. Adam Smith, Scott Millson, and Steve Overton dig into why manual spreadsheets are no longer sustainable and how Plansight is eliminating over eight hours of labor per renewal through AI, guided workflows, and a fundamentally different approach to the renewal process.

What does it actually take to grow your book of business without growing your headcount? Adam Smith and Weston Lunsford get into the workflow automation on the Benefits Broker Boost podcast, AI, and strategic mindset shifts that are helping brokers ditch the spreadsheets and start operating like the consultants their clients need them to be.

Manual renewal workflows and fragmented carrier data create administrative bottlenecks that stall benefits brokerages during critical renewal cycles. Discover how Plansight's latest updates automate document extraction, unify ancillary presentations, and deliver visual source tracking to eliminate data entry and elevate client strategy.

Standing out in today's crowded employee benefits market requires blending cutting-edge AI tools with classic, relationship-driven prospecting strategies. Learn how USI Producer Dennis Walker combines technology guardrails, executive-level consulting, and alternative care models to break through generic sales noise and build lasting client trust.

Outdated manual workflows and fragile Excel spreadsheets slow benefits brokerages down and expose them to costly data errors. Discover how Plansight provides a unified, AI-powered platform to automate RFPs, streamline renewal pipelines, and generate professional client presentations that drive agency growth.

General-purpose AI often fails in complex industries like employee benefits due to inaccurate outputs and a lack of transparency. Discover how Plansight's purpose-built AI engine uses deterministic constraints, node-based data routing, and visual document annotations to deliver 91% accuracy while keeping humans in the loop.

The modern "Broker 3.0" model shifts benefits advisors from commodity insurance vendors into hyper-specialized strategic consultants who prioritize health plan structure over flashy point solutions. Learn how McGriff Strategist Ryan Wiggins leverages structured plan design, pharmacy contract auditing, and self-funding education to protect employer budgets and shield employees from financial distress.

Traditional firmographics are no longer enough to win clients in a crowded employee benefits market. Learn how Calliope Founder Becca Johnson leverages AI to analyze digital signatures, from carrier turnover to ecosystem complexity, to power targeted, omnichannel consulting that converts prospects before the first meeting.

Building purpose-built broker technology requires continuous user feedback, industry experience, and a focus on core workflows. Learn how Plansight Founder Steve Overton leverages direct customer input to eliminate manual bottlenecks, streamline RFPs, and build intuitive renewal software that scales across entire agency teams.

Static paper guides and outdated presentation booklets are failing to engage modern employees during open enrollment. Learn how Brite CEO Landon Fielding combines digital engagement tools, structured benefits data, and decision support technology to help brokers eliminate administrative friction and deliver strategic value.

Focusing on gross margin per client provides a far better metric for agency growth than simple time savings alone. Learn how Plansight CEO Weston Lunsford leverages workflow automation and AI to help brokerages expand ancillary product offerings, cut labor costs, and protect profitability.

Successful technology adoption in benefits brokerages depends on integrating software directly into active renewal cycles rather than relying on generic feature demos. Learn how Plansight's dedicated Customer Success process uses hands-on onboarding, direct AMS/BenAdmin integrations, and in-app support hubs to eliminate administrative friction and accelerate agency productivity.

Delivering standard renewals is no longer enough to retain clients amidst rising healthcare costs and volatile market trends. Learn how former educator and benefits strategist Allison Adams leverages structured timelines, year-round client education, and disciplined execution to move beyond reactive spreadsheeting and build lasting consulting relationships.

Automated workflows, AI-powered document reading, and flexible multi-benefit package elections are transforming employee benefits platform management. Discover how the latest enhancements from Plansight streamline RFPs, eliminate rigid election deadlocks, and give brokers back the time needed for high-value strategic consulting.

Bringing Fintech-style innovation to employee benefits transforms annual renewals from a high-stress administrative burden into a strategic talent attraction engine. Learn how Plansight CEO Weston Lunsford leverages automated workflows to eliminate manual data entry, enabling brokers to act as high-value consultants who build comprehensive compensation packages.

Evaluating benefits technology requires focusing on workflow outcomes over slick product features while keeping a human in the loop. Learn how Hub International's Michelle Jukoski uses regional pilots and governance frameworks to scale AI across enterprise brokerages without disrupting existing operations.

Automated, guided workflows and AI document extraction are eliminating the traditional "data entry clerk" role for benefits brokers. Discover how Plansight CPO and Founder Steve Overton uses intuitive workflows and collaborative agency feedback to help both boutique shops and enterprise firms save time, streamline RFPs, and focus on high-value consulting.

Building a lasting benefits agency requires relentless daily grit, strong personal character, and strategic adoption of technology. Learn how Acrisure Partner Abner Aponte built a successful brokerage from scratch by prioritizing human connection, client-first service, and scalable technology.

Traditional PBM models extract value through opaque fee structures, spread pricing, and rising drug costs. Discover how Wellyfe CEO Dr. Jonathon Harrison helps brokers empower local health systems to create white-labeled PBM hubs, cutting pharmacy spend by up to 60% while reinvesting revenue back into the community.

Accelerating growth as a benefits consultant requires taking personal ownership of professional development, seeking early mentorship, and adopting a fiduciary-first mindset. Learn how Ethos Benefits Consultant Talia Hansen leverages educational curiosity, HR partnerships, and consistent social media visibility to build trust and move beyond traditional broker playbooks.

Manual modeling and static spreadsheets create information-transfer bottlenecks that stall Q4 renewal conversations among brokers, HR, and finance teams. Discover how Trucordia Producer Whitney Williamson uses Plansight's live modeling workflows to reduce back-and-forth delays, make real-time plan adjustments during meetings, and accelerate client buy-in.

Transitioning from account management to a top-producing sales role requires leveraging operational experience to set realistic client expectations and build trust. Learn how Trucordia Producer Whitney Williamson used SmartSheetingAI and automated quoting to manage 178 accounts, maintain a 98% retention rate, and effortlessly expand ancillary product lines.

Manual data entry and fragmented tech stacks waste labor hours and expose benefits brokerages to costly rate errors. Learn how Plansight's integration as a Vertafore Orange Partner connects BenefitPoint, Plansight, and Employee Navigator to automate the entire RFP-to-enrollment lifecycle, eliminate double entry, and empower teams to lead with strategy.

Saturated inboxes and generic outreach make it difficult for benefits advisors to stand out to prospective clients. Discover how Ross & Yerger Consultant CJ Jordan uses creative prospecting, data archaeology, and pharmacy cost-containment strategies to cut through industry noise and deliver high-impact self-funding solutions.

Fragmented data and manual renewal workflows obscure healthcare transparency and prevent benefits advisors from focusing on high-level client strategy. Learn how Plansight's purpose-built AI platform establishes a single source of truth to automate RFPs, standardize agency output, and give brokers the clarity needed to deliver affordable, long-term benefit solutions.

Elite physical discipline, a future-self mindset, and strategic AI adoption are redefining success for modern benefits consultants. Discover how Marsh McLennan Agency Leader Cole Rodgers leverages personal branding, live scenario preparation with AI, and human-centered emotional intelligence to transcend traditional brokerage roles and win high-stakes accounts.

Manual data re-entry between sold renewal proposals and employee open enrollment guides creates administrative bottlenecks and costly rate errors. Learn how the Plansight and Brite integration instantly syncs sold plan data into interactive digital guides, eliminating the retyping tax and accelerating the transition from proposal to open enrollment.

Building a scalable brokerage requires documenting internal processes early, leading with authentic values, and stepping out of daily administrative bottlenecks. Learn how Buffer Insurance Founder Sean Turner leverages systemized training manuals, founder-led personal branding, and proactive workplace health cultures to scale agency growth and build client trust.

Manual RFP tracking and fragmented email threads force benefits account teams into a reactive loop of chasing carrier quotes and updating static spreadsheets. Learn how Plansight's centralized marketing platform provides real-time status updates, automated communication logs, and seamless data flow to help brokers eliminate administrative friction and deliver strategic client service.

Developing a strong personal brand and a multi-year client strategy are essential for modern benefits advisors navigating rising healthcare costs. Learn how Alliant Insurance Services Vice President Matt Richard uses consistent LinkedIn whiteboard content, carrier insights, and data-driven storytelling to move beyond reactive renewals and deliver long-term strategic value.

Building authentic, lasting trust with teams and clients requires trading the myth of perfection for vulnerability and deep knowledge of the problem. Learn how leadership coach Scott Millson applies a proven trust formula to help benefits leaders lower self-orientation, lead in the trenches, and win on value rather than price.

General agencies face relentless pressure to support vast broker networks, manage high quoting volumes, and eliminate errors in manual RFP tracking. Discover how Plansight provides GAs with AI-driven proposal building, pre-branded agency presentations, and integrated QA tools to streamline multi-carrier renewals and scale operational capacity without increasing headcount.

Outdated cold-calling playbooks are failing modern benefits producers who need brand awareness and trust before pitching prospects. Learn how Complete Game Consulting Founder Andy Neary leverages athletic discipline, a four-pillar LinkedIn personal branding framework, and AI as a thought partner to help brokers build credibility, automate mundane prep work, and win new business.

Connecting disconnected agency software through direct integrations eliminates manual data re-entry and census errors across the entire benefits renewal lifecycle. Discover how Plansight syncs live census data directly into RFPs and automatically pushes final sold plan details back into agency management and enrollment systems.

High-volume outbound cold calls and generic email blasts yield a dismal 1% conversion rate for benefits advisors. Learn how social selling expert Sims Tillirson uses omni-channel pattern disruption, video DMs, and a four-pillar LinkedIn framework to build a personal broker moat, replace inbox fatigue, and drive predictable revenue.

Manual data entry and spreadsheet reconciliation make peak renewal season a high-risk operational bottleneck for benefits brokerages. Learn how AI-driven renewal automation and automated QA/QC workflows normalize carrier quote data, eliminate rate-entry errors, and reduce large-renewal preparation time from hours to under 30 minutes.

Most employers do not understand what drives their healthcare claims, leaving them stuck in reactive, traditional quoting cycles. Learn how Arete Benefits Founder Justin Burgess uses authentic content, self-funded plan design, and pharmacy transparency to educate employers, reduce employee drug costs, and build lasting client trust.

Exhausted HR leaders routinely ignore generic broker pitches and cold calls promising better rates. Learn how The Baldwin Group Advisor and The Conscious Bite Founder Chris Pierron uses employee health education and nutrition seminars to build authentic trust, create organic prospect relationships, and reduce long-term healthcare costs.

Surging employer healthcare costs and specialty pharmacy trends are driving projected 9%-10% rate increases, making 2026 renewals high-stakes for benefits brokers. Discover how PlansightAI helps brokerages automate quote intake, run instant scenario modeling, and utilize built-in QA tools to protect margins, eliminate manual errors, and scale client trust.

For decades, benefits brokers have endured chaotic, manual renewal processes driven by scattered spreadsheets and endless email chains. Learn how Plansight Founder and CPO Steve Overton turned industry frustration into an AI-driven platform that centralizes workflows, automates carrier quote extraction, and gives brokers back the time needed to deliver strategic client advisory.

This product update introduces direct feature enhancements inspired by user feedback to eliminate friction, reduce clicks, and streamline the RFP-to-presentation workflow. Learn how live Employee Navigator census integration, interactive quote reordering controls, and instant presentation previews help benefits brokerages create client-ready marketing outputs in record time.

Rising healthcare costs, elevated employer demands, and manual workflows are forcing benefits advisors to evolve from reactive data managers into proactive strategic consultants. Learn how Plansight CEO Weston Lunsford and CMO Adam Smith discuss using AI-driven renewal automation and repeatable operational systems to eliminate repetitive administrative work, protect agency margins, and position brokers as indispensable strategic partners.

Manual ACA plan rebuilds and limited ancillary quoting capabilities burdened Rhode Island brokerage WD & Associates during peak Q4 renewals. Discover how VP of Operations Jon Delmage led the adoption of Plansight to leverage prebuilt plan templates, automated RFP tracking, and BenefitPoint integration to streamline multi-line quoting, eliminate spreadsheet bottlenecks, and deliver consistent, professional client presentations.

Manual data entry and spreadsheet reconciliation create operational bottlenecks during renewal season, exposing brokerages to copy-and-paste errors and client churn. Discover how Plansight CEO Weston Lunsford outlines the benefits of industry-specific AI, including SmartSheeting AI™ and automated QA/QC workflows, to help brokers scale operations safely, ensure HIPAA/SOC 2 compliance, and protect client relationships.

Manual census gathering, carrier quote chasing, and spreadsheet reformatting consume valuable labor hours and increase compliance and error risks during renewal cycles. Learn how Plansight CEO Weston Lunsford and CMO Adam Smith discuss using industry-specific, HIPAA/SOC 2-compliant AI tools like SmartSheetingAI™ and automated QA/QC workflows to reduce renewal prep times from hours to under 30 minutes while protecting client data privacy.

Using public AI tools for benefits management exposes brokerages to severe HIPAA compliance violations and proprietary data leaks. Learn how Plansight's guide evaluates public, self-hosted, and industry-specific AI models, outlines essential vendor-vetting questions, and emphasizes the need for HIPAA-compliant, SOC 2-certified automation like PlansightAI.

Relying on human labor alone for manual proposal formatting creates burnout and diverts focus from strategic client advisory, while unguided AI implementation risks alienating staff or eroding trust. Learn how Plansight's practical guide outlines five actionable strategies for balancing AI and human capital, positioning AI as an administrative assistant to flag proposal deviations, automate busywork, and free benefits advisors to focus on high-touch client relationships.

Scaling brokerage operations effectively requires pairing human advisory expertise with secure, purpose-built automation rather than choosing between them. Learn how Plansight CEO Weston Lunsford outlines the key strategies on Vertafore's VIP Podcast for combining human relationships with intelligent automation to double operational capacity, protect data security, and eliminate manual renewal friction.

Manual data extraction from complex carrier documents exposes benefits brokers to severe rate errors and hours of lost productivity during peak renewal cycles. Learn how PlansightAI reads, normalizes, and structures plan data across core and voluntary lines, including disability and life insurance, reducing manual document review from hours to minutes while seamlessly feeding into unified RFP workflows.

Managing variations in class-based life insurance and voluntary coverage manually exposes brokerages to severe data-mapping errors and administrative delays. Learn how the latest PlansightAI update automates document parsing across eight core life and AD&D coverage types, multi-class plan designs, and complex disability plans, eliminating manual cleanup, improving output accuracy, and scaling multi-line RFP workflows.

Manual data extraction from carrier proposal PDFs creates massive time drains, formula errors, and collaboration bottlenecks for benefits account teams. Learn how SmartSheeting AI™ by Plansight automates carrier quote parsing, generates side-by-side plan comparisons with built-in human QA, and allows brokerages to scale operations without relying on fragile Excel workbooks.