CUNA Mutual offers 'Straight Talk' online info

CUNA Mutual Group's new web based resource offers a transparent look at how bond providers price coverage, make adjustments and pay claims. It also provides a look at the insurance-buying patterns of peer credit unions.

"The Straight Talk program has one goal – to provide credit unions with a transparent look into the credit union protection division," said Chad Nitschke, CUNA Mutual Vice President of Commercial Products.

"Credit unions are going through perhaps the most difficult period in their history," Nitschke added. "We realize our customers don't always agree with some of our decisions, but our intent is to make decisions that are in the best interests of all our collective policy owners."

The site features "You be the Judge," which demonstrates the fine line between insurable and uninsurable risks. After reading a scenario with talking points that influence decisions to approve or deny a claim, readers can cast their vote and then learn the verdict.

Other Straight Talk features are:

The Watercooler – CUNA Mutual product leaders and risk managers will present articles, ideas, trends and data designed to help credit unions remain financially secure.
Board.edu – The feature contains a series of short, focused question and answer videos to help credit union board members get information on risks relevant to their credit union's success and their personal liability. The videos are less than 10 minutes and can be viewed individually, making them ideal for board meetings.
Peer Data – This tool allows credit unions to see what credit unions in their peer group are purchasing, and outlines limit and deductible levels for 13 different coverages.
Risk Management Services – This section features updates on new and emerging risks, including access to risk alerts, white papers, webinars, online assessments, and a link to "Meet Your Risk Manager."

Straight Talk is based on customer input. A group of 10 credit union policy owners nationwide that make up CUNA Mutual's Credit Union Protection Advisory Panel not only tested and validated the concept, but two of the features, Peer Data and Board.edu, were original ideas from the group.