PRESS RELEASE

ASCnet Honors Carriers for Facilitating Real-Time Interface
Companies Presented "Ease of Doing Business Awards"

ORLANDO, Fla. (Oct. 16, 2007)- Applied Systems Client Network (ASCnet), the user group for Applied Systems agency management technology, today presented awards to several insurance carriers in recognition of their work to implement download and real-time interface technology with appointed agencies and brokerages.

The "2007 Ease of Doing Business Awards" were presented by ASCnet Interface Committee Chair Lisa Parry Becker here at the organization's 22nd Annual Technology, Education & Networking Conference (TENCon).

The awards recognize insurance companies and carrier representatives who are committed to working to implement real time and download transactions and to helping their agencies and brokerages achieve streamlined workflows and operational efficiency. Awards were presented to those carriers that were highest-rated in advancing and implementing interface technology, such as personal lines rating and issue; commercial lines rating and issue; billing, policy and claims inquiry; endorsement; and commercial lines and personal lines download. Also honored were the top-rated personal lines and commercial lines carriers.

Grabbing the most honors was Ohio Casualty Group, which was presented the Ease of Doing Business (Gold) Award and was named as the Personal Lines Interface Carrier of the Year. In addition, Ohio Casualty field marketing representative Byrin Bratcher was presented the 2007 Carrier Field Representative Award. This award honors a field rep who achieves the highest impact in helping agents and brokers adopt real time workflows.

Frankenmuth Mutual was honored with the Ease of Doing Business (Silver) Award and ACUITY was presented the Ease of Doing Business (Bronze) Award. Rounding out the carrier honorees was Selective Insurance, which was honored as the Commercial Lines Interface Carrier of the Year.

Founded in 1985 and based in Altamonte Springs, Fla., the Applied Systems Client Network, Inc. (ASCnet) is an international association representing more than 110,000 insurance professionals in 11 countries and territories. The only authorized user group for Applied Systems solutions, ASCnet promotes successful technology and business practices through education and advocacy. For more information: www.ascnet.org.