For 2006 we have expanded the ratings categories to allow us to make more of a distinction between e-commerce propositions.  We now have eight rating categories:

eee+

The highest rating, awarded to those companies who's e-commerce propositions most closely match the requirements defined by intermediaries.  Providers who achieve this level need to focus on keeping their proposition at the front of a fast evolving market.

eee

The second highest level of rating achievable, awarded to those companies providing an excellent level of e-commerce facility to intermediaries but falling just short of providing a fully automated and intuitive e-commerce service.

ee+

A highly commendable result, however clearly showing there is scope for further improvement on the e-commerce facilities available to intermediaries.

ee

A reasonable level of e-commerce facilities being provided to meet adviser requirements, with latitude for e-commerce development.

ee-

Below average e-commerce facilities being provided to intermediaries and scope for improvement.

e+

Suggests need for significant enhancements to e-commerce proposition.

e

Significantly behind the pack, with the second lowest rating.  Requires considerable improvement.

e-

The lowest rating awarded.  Indicates that there are areas of the company's e-commerce proposition in the subject product area is in need of significant attention.

The benchmarks will also have moved to reflect the changing e-commerce prioritis of the adviser community.