While direct, automated connections with Agency Management Systems (AMS) offer significant efficiency, Milly Books provides a flexible and controlled alternative to ensure every independent agency can leverage the power of its book of business data. The Manual Connect feature allows you to import data via files like CSV or Excel, serving as a versatile solution that empowers you with direct control over the data you share.
Uploading your book of business is the single most important step to unlocking the full power of the Milly Books platform. This data is the “fuel” that powers our proprietary Valuation Engine, enables strategic portfolio segmentation with “Slices,” drives our intelligent matching algorithms, and streamlines the creation of marketplace listings.
The Manual Upload Workflow
This flexible method works for any AMS that can export a policy report, such as EZLynx or even AMS360. The process involves several key steps designed to be user-friendly and to ensure data integrity.
Step 1: Export a Detailed Report from Your AMS
Begin by exporting a report from your existing AMS into a CSV file.
Log in to your AMS and generate a detailed policy report. For EZLynx, this is the “Detail Report”; for AMS360, use the “Policy Book of Business” report.
Customize the report to include the following required fields: Carrier, Line of Business (LOB), Total Premium (Annualized), Insured State, Type (Personal/Commercial), and a Policy Number or ID. Export the final report as a CSV file.
Step 2: Upload the CSV File to Milly Books
Log in to Milly Books and go to the Book Management section. Click the “Upload File” button and select the CSV file you just exported.
Uploading a new file replaces your entire existing policy dataset, which ensures your book on the platform reflects the most up-to-date information.
Step 3: Map and Validate Your Data
Our intuitive wizard will guide you through mapping the columns from your CSV file to the corresponding fields in Milly Books. The system will attempt to automatically map headers for known formats like EZLynx, but you can easily adjust or manually map any unmapped fields using the provided dropdowns.
Validation checks flag missing data, data type mismatches, and other potential issues.
Step 4: Preview and Complete Your Import
Carefully review the data preview to ensure everything appears correct and there are no mismatches or errors. If you spot any issues, you can correct the data in your original CSV and re-upload.
Once you are satisfied, click “Complete Import” to finalize the process.
What Happens to Your Data? Quality, Consistency, and Privacy
Every data file undergoes a structured process to ensure accuracy and usability while protecting your privacy.
Data Standardization and Quality
To provide accurate valuations, your raw data is transformed into a high-quality format. The system validates required fields, converts data for consistency (e.g., standardizing state abbreviations), and intelligently maps your Carrier and Line of Business codes to a master list. Your custom mappings are saved to increase efficiency for future uploads.
Our Commitment to Your Privacy
We understand the sensitive nature of your agency’s data.
- Data Minimization and Anonymization: Our most critical security measure is to avoid storing sensitive client information. Details such as names and addresses are systematically excluded. We use an anonymized client ID to protect privacy.
- Your Data, Your Control: Your agency’s data remains your sole property, and all data sharing decisions are made exclusively by you.
By uploading your book of business, you provide the data needed to power accurate valuations, strategic Slicing, and intelligent matching on the Milly Books platform. Ready to connect your agency’s data to powerful M&A insights?
Leveraging Expert Support for a Seamless Experience
Powerful technology is most effective when paired with expert guidance. To unlock the platform’s full potential, we recommend adopting best practices and leveraging the support of the Milly Books Success Team.
Best Practices for Maximizing Your Experience
- Master Your Data: The accuracy of our platform depends on the quality of your data. Ensure your data is clean and accurate at the source (within your AMS) before you begin.
- Leverage Core Features: Actively use features like “Slices” to perform granular analysis and obtain precise valuations for specific segments of your book.
- Stay Engaged: Interact with the platform by responding to notifications and exploring your dashboard to stay aware of new opportunities.
The Milly Books Success Team: Your Expert Partner
Our dedicated Success Team is a vital resource, providing personalized assistance and deep platform knowledge. Our team can manage the entire data import process for you—from review and cleaning to mapping and uploading. We can also provide expert support to help you craft a compelling listing that attracts the right buyers and offer general guidance to ensure you can navigate the platform with confidence.
Ready to unlock the value of your book, regardless of your AMS? Create your free account and explore our flexible upload options today.
Need extra help? Connect with our Success Team today for assistance in creating your account, integrating your data, or creating your first listing!