UBS Develops Mobile App for Advisers

The strategy involves equipping WMA’s field personnel with mobile tools and applications that are more interactive and agile. UBS says the new technology reinforces the firm’s commitment to a business model that is “financial adviser-centric and client-focused.”

The company launched a national pilot of UBS FA Mobile, an iPad application that will allow the firm’s financial advisers to access desktop and proprietary tools while away from their offices. The app extends WMA FAs’ mobile access to proprietary research and client materials, including client account and contact data, market data, analyst research and full email capabilities.

Beginning December 1, 2011, UBS WMA will enter a three-month pilot period during which the firm will introduce the application to a focus group of advisers across the United States. This pilot phase follows a development process led by UBS’s Technology group that included engaging with WMA’s FAs to provide feedback and input on the tool’s design, as well as technical development assistance, counsel and mobility software from Silicon Valley-based Framehawk, Inc.

UBS WMA plans to follow the three-month pilot period of UBS FA Mobile with a national launch of the platform to FAs beginning March 2012. While the app is designed for the iPad, the platform can be extended to other mobile platforms based on FA demand.