Project Background: With its robust, experienced network of advisors, Stifel is one of the top full-service investment firms in the country. But in a world where consumers are proliferated with a variety of options for investment services and where technology is king, Stifel has come to a crossroads. Stifel’s current demographic consists mainly of older men who have accumulated some sort of wealth that necessitates the use of an advisor. On the other hand, younger consumers often judge a company by its technology and prefer a do-it-yourself approach.

Problem: How can we use technology to bridge the gap between young investors and advisors?

Process: Interviewed subject matter expects to better understand Stifel’s investment programs. Created personas for prospective clients. Conducted an assessment of Stifel’s technology and social media processes. Outlined vision for enhanced technological features and social media strategy in creative brief. Created wireframes and static prototypes detailing design and functionality.

Design Solution: Built out features for new mobile prospecting app called Wealth Tracker. There prospective clients can track their investments, assets and liabilities to calculate their net worth, as well as create their own risk profile. Users are prompted throughout to connect with a financial advisor, and matching is done manually based on a user’s needs. The next iteration is to further automate the advisor connection process, as well as enhance Stifel’s social media strategy, to get younger investors in the door.