What’s new: In brief (April 25, 2005)

Restoration network Disaster Kleenup International (Canada) Ltd. has launched a software pilot program with Symbility Solutions Inc. The pilot is to determine the effectiveness of Symbility’s software in estimating property claims. The 60-day test begins on June 1. “By removing paper from the process and allowing estimates to be completed and transmitted on site, we feel that our membership will be able to dramatically improve productivity for both our DKC member contractors and our insurance partners,” says DKC’s CEO, Matt Johnson, who says the pilot was spurred by feedback from members involved in Symbility pilots undertaken by Allstate, Economical and Gore Mutual.

PPG Canada has appointed Norm Angrove as national strategic development manager, responsible for forging relationships with original equipment manufacturers, dealership consolidators, independent shop consolidators and buying groups. Angrove brings more than 30 years collision repair industry experience to this role. PPG Canada CertifiedFirst Network also announces it is one of the first “platinum level” sponsors of the Women in Insurance Cancer Crusade (WICC). This marks a commitment of $45,000 over three years to the insurance industry’s efforts to fund cancer research and education.

The Insurance Institute of Ontario (IIO) will host its “Spring Luncheon” in Toronto on May 5, with the theme “Communication, Compensation and Credibility: Lasting Solutions for an Improved Industry Image”. Guest speakers include Chubb Insurance Co. of Canada CEO Ellen J. Moore, Justin J. MacGregor, president of Hugh Wood Canada Ltd. and James Daw, “Money Talk” columnist for the Toronto Star. To register, contact Leah Sangster at 416-865-2704 or email: lsangster@iic-iac.org.