Advisor Access announced by Raymond James

Rumors have been rampant but now it is official, Raymond James has stated its new integrated Advisor Access platform is on its way to the firm's 6,000 advisers. Rollout is to begin in June and take eight to 10 weeks according to the prepared statement disseminated today. While most advisers have told me for years that their technology from the RJ mother ship is “okay” many have expressed that, at best, it represented a bit of a hodge podge, a patchwork quilt of disparate tech that in some cases works well and in others, well, leaves something to be desired. In addition to a new interface for advisers and improved ability to get at client data, the platform includes a re-engineered intranet, called RJnet. It is supposed to make research, social media features, and other resources easier for advisers to access. That evidently includes simpler connectivity to peers, company experts, as well as improved Integration of core tools like financial planning, investment proposal generation and portfolio modeling platforms, all of which, according to the statement "are coming soon." At any rate today's announcement will come as no surprise to those advisers that attended the Raymond James Financial Services National Conference for Professional Development earlier this month in Orlando. A Technology Center, introducing advisers to the new system was a centerpiece of the gathering. I have yet to be briefed on exactly what is in the system or what third-party technology has been integraed with it or what is on its roadmap for that matter. The statement does discuss making sure that advisers get access to the system regardless of device type, including the iPad and smart phone connectivity. Related stories: Raymond James makes its social-media move Niche practice offers shield for advisers RJ boss on MK deal: Right fit, right time