L&R 200: Illustrations Part 2 - Generate Illustration PDFs
Tee
Updated on Feb 27, 2025
Hey, everyone. My name is T-Sun. Welcome to part two of using Coherent Spark for Illustrations. In part one, we explored a simple example of indexing a universal life illustration model, converting it to an API, and discussed integrating that API into various illustration systems. Typically, clients use this API to populate a PDF. In this segment, we'll explore generating that PDF directly within Spark, saving time and cost associated with manual PDF creation and design.
The feature that facilitates this is called XReport within Spark. It allows you to design and produce PDF reports directly. Here's an example using a fixed indexed annuity illustration, provided by one of our partners. It resembles the IUL model with inputs and calculations, but the difference lies in the XReport tabs. These tabs are where the PDF is designed and printed as part of the API.
Once you have your design, upload it into Spark as usual. I've already done this with a file named "via illustration underscore XReport." It functions similarly to before, with different inputs and outputs. When you run it, Spark generates the illustration logic and creates the reports. Clicking on a report generates a PDF, created inside the spreadsheet.
Now that we have an API that generates PDFs, what can we do with it? Here's an example from Life Innovators, available on their website, illustrationinnovators.com. You can integrate this API into your illustration system, a website, or a quoting tool like Salesforce.
For instance, on the website, you can select options such as location (e.g., Arkansas), model (e.g., FIIA), and input personal details. You can quote a $100,000 policy with a seven-year withdrawal period, allocate options, and run the illustration. The inputs produce an illustration with all necessary numbers and a table of values.
There's a "Print Illustration" button, which generates a fully functioning illustration document from the spreadsheet. Many find this output superior to their company's existing illustrations. The document includes contents, numbers, and any desired information, all designed from Spark. It's a comprehensive document, often spanning over 40 pages, with product explanations and index growth comparisons.
This example is courtesy of our partner, Life Innovators. They prepare spreadsheets, design and create PDFs, and collaborate with illustration vendors to implement the API into systems, ensuring proper functionality. If you're seeking a consultancy to assist with Spark integration, I highly recommend them.
Thank you for your time.