FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about Financial Services Cloud implementations, timelines, and working with IS-Consulting

Implementation & Process

How long does a typical FSC implementation take?
Implementation timeline depends on complexity and scope:

  • Basic FSC setup with standard workflows: 6-8 weeks
  • Medium complexity with custom integrations: 3-4 months
  • Complex multi-system integration with custom development: 4-6 months

I always start with a comprehensive discovery phase to provide an accurate timeline based on your specific requirements. Most clients see initial value within the first month through quick wins like automated workflows and improved data visibility.

What’s your implementation methodology?
I follow a proven 4-phase approach:

  • Discovery & Planning (Week 1-2): Requirements gathering, current state analysis, solution design
  • Core Configuration (Weeks 3-6): FSC setup, data model, security, workflows
  • Integration & Customization (Weeks 7-10): API integrations, custom development, testing
  • Training & Go-Live (Weeks 11-12): User training, data migration, production deployment

Throughout the process, I provide weekly progress updates and involve your team in testing to ensure the solution meets your exact needs.

Do you provide training for our team?
Absolutely! Training is included in every implementation:

  • End-user training: Role-based sessions for advisors, administrators, and compliance staff
  • Administrator training: Deep-dive on system configuration, user management, and ongoing maintenance
  • Documentation: Comprehensive user guides and process documentation
  • Video tutorials: Recorded sessions for ongoing reference and new employee onboarding

I also offer follow-up training sessions at 30 and 90 days post-implementation to address any questions and optimize usage.

Business & Pricing

Do you work with firms of our size? We’re a smaller practice.
Yes! As an independent consultant, I specialize in providing enterprise-level expertise to small and mid-market firms. You get direct access to senior-level consulting without the overhead costs of large consulting firms.

I’ve successfully implemented FSC for firms ranging from 5-advisor practices to 200+ advisor organizations. Smaller firms often see faster ROI because we can move quickly and implement solutions tailored specifically to your needs without unnecessary complexity.

What’s the typical ROI for an FSC implementation?
Most clients see ROI within 6-12 months through:

  • 30-50% reduction in administrative time for advisors
  • 40-60% faster client onboarding processes
  • Significant reduction in compliance-related manual work
  • Improved client satisfaction leading to better retention and referrals
  • Cost savings from operational efficiency gains

The exact ROI depends on your current processes and firm size, but I work with you to identify and measure specific KPIs that matter to your business.

How do you structure your pricing?
I offer transparent, project-based pricing with no hidden fees:

  • Fixed-price projects: Most implementations are quoted as fixed-price based on scope
  • Hourly consulting: For discovery phases, small enhancements, or ongoing support
  • Monthly retainers: For ongoing managed services and system administration

All pricing includes documentation, training, and 30 days of post-implementation support. I provide detailed proposals with clear deliverables and timelines before any work begins.

Technical & Compliance

What’s your experience with regulatory compliance in FSC?
Compliance is at the core of everything I do in financial services. My implementations include:

  • Pre-built KYC/AML workflows that meet regulatory requirements
  • Automated audit trails and documentation for all client interactions
  • FINRA-compliant communication tracking and archiving
  • Built-in approval processes for sensitive data changes and transactions
  • Regular compliance reporting: dashboards and automated alerts

With my banking background, I understand the regulatory landscape and build solutions that not only meet current requirements but are flexible enough to adapt to changing regulations.

Can you integrate Salesforce with our existing portfolio management system?
Yes, integration is one of my core specialties. I’ve successfully integrated FSC with major platforms including:

  • Portfolio management systems: Orion, Black Diamond, Redtail, Tamarac
  • Custodial platforms: Charles Schwab, Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, Pershing
  • Risk management tools: Riskalyze, Hidden Levers, Nitrogen
  • Document management: SharePoint, DocuSign, Laserfiche
  • CRM migrations: From legacy systems like ACT!, Goldmine, or spreadsheets

I use API-first architecture to ensure real-time data synchronization while maintaining data integrity and security standards required in financial services.

How do you handle data security and privacy?
Data security is paramount in financial services. My approach includes:

  • Salesforce Shield implementation: Field-level encryption, event monitoring, and compliance features
  • Role-based security model: Granular permissions ensuring users only see data they need
  • Secure integration patterns: OAuth, certificate-based authentication, and encrypted data transmission
  • Audit trail maintenance: Complete logging of all data access and modifications
  • Regular security reviews: Ongoing monitoring and updates to security configurations

All implementations follow financial industry best practices and can accommodate specific regulatory requirements for your firm.

Support & Ongoing Relationship

How do you handle ongoing support after implementation?
I offer flexible ongoing support options to match your needs:

  • Managed Services: Monthly retainer for ongoing admin, updates, user management, and enhancements
  • On-Demand Support: Pay-as-you-go for specific issues, training, or small projects
  • Training & Knowledge Transfer: Comprehensive training to make your team self-sufficient
  • Quarterly Health Checks: Regular system reviews and optimization recommendations

Most clients start with managed services for the first 6 months to ensure smooth operations, then transition to on-demand support as their internal capabilities grow.

What if we need changes or enhancements after go-live?
Change is inevitable as your business grows! I build solutions with scalability in mind:

  • Flexible architecture: Solutions designed to accommodate future changes without major rework
  • Change management process: Structured approach for evaluating and implementing modifications
  • Priority support: Existing clients get priority scheduling for enhancements
  • Cost-effective updates: Leveraging existing architecture keeps enhancement costs reasonable

Whether it’s adding new workflows, integrating additional systems, or scaling for more users, I’m here to support your evolving needs.

Do you work remotely or on-site?
I work primarily remotely, which allows me to serve clients efficiently while keeping costs down. My remote approach includes:

  • Video conference meetings: Regular check-ins and working sessions via Zoom/Teams
  • Screen sharing: Real-time collaboration during configuration and training
  • Secure remote access: Direct system work with proper security protocols
  • Flexible scheduling: Available across time zones to accommodate your team

For larger implementations or special circumstances, I can arrange on-site visits for key milestones like go-live or intensive training sessions.

Still Have Questions?

Every financial services firm has unique needs. Let’s discuss your specific situation and how Financial Services Cloud can transform your operations.

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