Easier onboarding: What to look for in an administrator

April 07, 2021

In theory, onboarding seems like it should be a simple, straightforward formality. But in practice, the process can be a lot bumpier. For a smooth, streamlined experience, look for a partner with these five qualities.

 

Stories have emerged in the media recently about the difficulties some funds experience when transitioning accounts to new administrators. Unfortunately, headaches like these are all too common – as anyone who’s spent months organizing meetings, redlining agreements and collecting contract signatures can attest.

When administrators fail to give onboarding the priority and investment it deserves, inefficiencies and client frustration are often the result.

For a smooth, seamless process, you need a partner that understands the importance of onboarding and invests in the technology and expertise it takes to do it well. Here are five attributes you should look for in an administrator that indicate proficiency. 

 

1. An ongoing commitment to technology innovation

We live in a digital age, so you might be surprised how many administrators still rely on manual processes for many onboarding tasks. Obviously, this can introduce potential errors, inefficiencies and complications.

A technology-focused provider will maintain a sophisticated framework to check, monitor, and assess risk during the onboarding process in an efficient fashion. They’re able to examine potential client pain points and develop flexible solutions that adapt as needs evolve while remaining compliant with policies and regulations. This can produce faster turnarounds and smoother interaction overall. 

 

2. An automated digital platform

You need an administrator that’s willing to invest in automated, integrated data platforms – even if those systems operate behind the scenes and aren’t necessarily client facing. Investment in technology indicates that client service is a real priority and not just a marketing talking point.

As an example, at U.S. Bank we recently enhanced our Fund Services Account Opening (FSAO) platform to ensure our clients have the best possible experience. The digitized system enables us to provide solutions uniquely customized to each client’s needs – fully aligned with their specific milestones and requirements.

“FSAO enables system integration and streamlines data collection, which helps ensure its accuracy,” says Tina LaMar, vice president and senior digital project manager for U.S. Bank Investment Services. “CRM integration, for example, thoroughly and accurately captures product and service details so we can tailor onboarding workflows for clients based on their specific funds and service needs.”

FSAO also captures unique data points and shares this information in a transparent fashion so clients aren’t requested to provide the same information multiple times.

 

3. Multiple levels of client support

Different clients require different levels of guidance and support. Some prefer a do-it-yourself approach, and others want more involved, hands-on assistance. At U.S. Bank, our onboarding platform will enable us, to provide a flexible, full-spectrum support model adaptable to every client’s unique working style.

  • Do it yourself (DIY): The client handles the task on their own and at their own pace, and we provide assistance only when requested. 
  • Do it together (DIT): We provide assistance and support to the client and work through the task together. 
  • Do it for me (DIFM): We handle the task on behalf of the client and reach out to them for information as needed.

 

4. Breadth of experience and infrastructure

A tenured team understands exactly what regulatory and internal-policy-required documentation they need for know your customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) compliance. Obtaining everything upfront, at the start of the process, reduces inefficient back-and-forth requests that add work and place additional demands on your time.

“By choosing an organization with broad resources and a global infrastructure, you can expect streamlined processes and a standardized approach to onboarding,” says Jessica Behrendt, senior vice president and relationship manager for U.S. Bank Global Fund Services. “A trusted service partner has systems in place to adhere to standards and capture all requirements. This gives you confidence you’re benefiting from those standards as well.”

 

5. An obvious desire for client service excellence

Find a provider that prioritizes the client experience, and you can rest assured they’ll do everything in their power to make onboarding as smooth and seamless as possible. Look for a team that’s accessible, available and adaptable – but that also has the infrastructure, technology and expertise to support their commitment to your needs.

It’s important to remember that onboarding isn’t just a one-time event. You’ll likely continue to add new products and services in the future as you grow your business, so look for a partner with technology, like FSAO, that can keep up. In short, you want an administrator who won't let anything compromise the client experience. When your satisfaction is their driving motivational force, they’ll find specialized ways to meet your needs – no matter what.

Whether you’re working with an administrator currently or searching for new one, it’s important to understand their onboarding approach. Asking the right questions early on could help you avoid a myriad of complications down the road. 

 

Learn how we can help you with your fund servicing needs. Visit us at usbank.com/globalfundservices. 

Related content

Want AP automation to pay both businesses and consumers?

Allowance basics for parents and kids

ABCs of APIs: Drive treasury efficiency with real-time connectivity

30-day adulting challenge: Financial wellness tasks to complete in a month

High-yield bond issuance: 5 traits lawyers should look for in a service provider

Year-end financial checklist

Putting home ownership within reach for a diverse workforce

Administrator accountability: 5 questions to evaluate outsourcing risks

Blockchain: Separating hype from substance

Hybridization driving demand

The AI journey in finance: How to make it part of your strategy

Finance or operating lease? Deciphering the legalese of equipment finance

Buying or leasing? Questions to ask before signing a contract

Luxembourg's thriving private debt market

Easier onboarding: What to look for in an administrator

3 questions to ask your equity, quant and CTA fund administrator

3 tips to maintain flexibility in supply chain management

Insource or outsource? 10 considerations

The secret to successful service provider integration

10 ways a global custodian can support your growth

The benefits of a full-service warehouse custodian

4 questions you should ask about your custodian

Refining your search for an insurance custodian

Service provider due diligence and selection best practices

Colleges respond to student needs by offering digital payments

Authenticating cardholder data reduce e-commerce fraud

Webinar: Robotic process automation

Webinar: CRE technology trends

Complying with changes in fund regulations

Business risk management for owners of small companies

Evaluating interest rate risk creating risk management strategy

Drive digital transformation with payments innovation

Webinar: CSM corporation re-thinks AP

Banking connectivity: Helping businesses deliver the easier, faster, more secure customer experience of the future

Tech tools to keep your restaurant operations running smoothly

Automate accounts payable to optimize revenue and payments

Automate escheatment for accounts payable to save time and money

Webinar: AP automation for commercial real estate

Addressing financial uncertainty in international business

5 winning strategies for managing liquidity in volatile times

3 ways to make practical use of real-time payments

The future of financial leadership: More strategy, fewer spreadsheets

How AI in treasury management is transforming finance

Unexpected cost savings may be hiding in your payment strategy

Digital trends poised to reshape hotel payments

Enhancing the patient experience through people-centered payments

Empowering managers with data automation and integration

Employee benefit plan management: trustee vs. custodian

Choosing your M&A escrow partner

Delivering powerful results with SWIFT messaging and services

High-cost housing and down payment options in relocation

Why retail merchandise returns will be a differentiator in 2022

Digital processes streamline M&A transactions

How RIAs can embrace technology to enhance personal touch

What corporate treasurers need to know about Virtual Account Management

Work flexibility crucial as municipalities return to office

Treasury management innovations earn Model Bank awards

Crypto + Relo: Mobility industry impacts

For today's relocating home buyers, time and money are everything

Webinar: CRE Digital Transformation – Balancing Digitization with cybersecurity risk

Empowering team members

10 tips on how to run a successful family business

Business tips and advice for Black entrepreneurs

Staying organized when taking payments

Key considerations for online ordering systems

How does an electronic point of sale help your business keep track of every dime?

Tools that can streamline staffing and employee management

How to identify what technology is needed for your small business

Planning for restaurant startup costs and when to expect them

How to test new business ideas

The role of ethics in the hiring process

8 ways to increase employee engagement

How to reward employees and teams who perform well

How to hire employees: Employee referral vs. external hiring

Give a prepaid rewards card for employee recognition

Checklist: Increase lead generation with website optimization

Why ecommerce for small business strategy is integral

Is your restaurant Google-friendly?

How small businesses are growing sales with online ordering

3 simple brand awareness tips for your business

How a small business owner is making the workplace work for women

The growing importance of a strong corporate culture

Business credit card 101

Meet your business credit card support team

How to apply for a business credit card

How jumbo loans can help home buyers and your builder business

Break free from cash flow management constraints

5 tips for managing your business cash flow

How running a business that aligns with core values is paying off

Meet the Milwaukee businessman behind Funky Fresh Spring Rolls

Improve online presence your business

How Shampoo’ed is transforming hair and inspiring entrepreneurs

The San Francisco bridal shop that’s been making memories for 30 years

How Al’s Breakfast is bringing people together

In a digital world, Liberty Puzzles embraces true connection

Celebrity Cake Studio’s two decades of growth and success

How a travel clothing retailer is staying true to its brand values

How to build a content team

3 ways to gain loyalty with your customers

Use this one simple email marketing tip to increase your reach

How (and why) to get your business supplier diversity certification

Tips to overcome three common savings hurdles

5 tips to use your credit card wisely and steer clear of debt

Travel for less: Smart (not cheap) ways to spend less on your next trip

P2P payments make it easier to split the tab

Real world advice: How parents are teaching their kids about money

How to stop living paycheck to paycheck post-pay increase

Practical money tips we've learned from our dads

6 ways to spring clean your finances and save money year-round

How to cut mindless spending: real tips from real people

How to increase your savings

5 tips to use your credit card wisely and steer clear of debt

How to spot a credit repair scam

5 unique ways to take your credit card benefits further

Disclosures

U.S. Bank Global Fund Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of U.S. Bank, N. A.

U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (Ireland) Limited is registered in Ireland, Company Number 413707. Registered Office at 24 - 26 City Quay, Dublin 2, Ireland. Directors: Linda Gorman, Rose Clear, Brett Meili (USA), Joe Neuberger (USA), Padraic O'Connor, Christine Waldron (USA). U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (Ireland) Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (Guernsey) Limited is licensed under the Protection of Investors Law (Bailiwick of Guernsey), 1987, as amended by the Guernsey Financial Services Commission to conduct controlled investment business in the Bailiwick of Guernsey.

U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (Luxembourg) S.a.r.l. is registered in Luxembourg with RCS number B238278 and Registered Office: Floor 3, K2 Ballade, 4, rue Albert Borschette, L-1246 Luxembourg. U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (Luxembourg) S.a.r.l. is authorised and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier.

Investment products and services are:

NOT A DEPOSIT • NOT FDIC INSURED • MAY LOSE VALUE • NOT BANK GUARANTEED • NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY

U.S. Bank does not guarantee products, services or performance of its affiliates and third-party providers.

Start of disclosure content

Loan approval is subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loan amounts. Interest rate and program terms are subject to change without notice. Mortgage, Home Equity and Credit products are offered through U.S. Bank National Association. Deposit products are offered through U.S. Bank National Association. Member FDIC.