A contract with a defined contribution (DC) provider is a long-term commitment. Consequently, it is important that our clients are able to fully weigh and compare the capabilities and strengths of each provider before selecting a partner. It is also critical that our clients continue to monitor the selected provider to ensure the reasons for selection continue to apply and that their chosen partner maintains a competitive position in these areas.
What does the Provider Research team do?
These are some of the key research activities that help us build an informed picture of the DC market:
Meetings
- Regular operational and investment administration site visits
- Strategy review sessions with key decision makers
- Recurrent updates on product development
Qualitative assessments
- Fund range
- Online service functionality
- Communication materials
- Default fund design
Data monitoring
- Product and service questionnaire responses
- Administrative performance
- Fee analysis
- Default fund risk and performance
Feedback
- Client opinion surveys
- Interviews with client facing staff
- WTW consultant surveys
- Quantative data on service quality
Accessing WTW’s research-led consulting provides clients with the following benefits:
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01
Whole of market coverage
The research team assesses all providers in the market place, including niche providers, not just a pre-defined shortlist.
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02
Selection based on client objectives
Research across a wide spectrum of capabilities and services allows us to adopt a selection process where clients can identify and weigh elements of the proposition that meet their key objectives for a successful scheme, rather than using a generic approach to identify a shortlist.
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03
Provider monitoring tools
We have a series of tools available to enable our clients to continuously monitor their selected providers, including service monitoring, market benchmarking and comparing charges.
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04
Early warning if things go wrong
Keeping our finger on the pulse of provider performance, the advanced warning can be used to encourage providers to improve or, in worst case scenario, allow clients to exit before matters get out of hand.
