iLinc is an innovative web conferencing and online training software program that allows Investment Planning Counsel advisors to interact in a live environment via the Internet or company intranet. By simply using an Internet- enabled desktop or laptop computer with Microsoft PowerPoint, advisors can learn from and interact with other employees across the country.

iLinc has four main products or functions: LearnLinc - a training program where advisors can participate in live online training sessions and learn from a real instructor via web conferencing; MeetingLinc - to help advisors conduct online meetings with web conferencing; ConferenceLinc - for advisors to conduct or watch and listen to live online presentations; and SupportLinc - for advisors to obtain remote technical support.

iLinc's online training service saves advisors time and money by eliminating both the travel and associated expenses incurred when attending training sessions and meetings. iLinc also gives Investment Planning Counsel advisors the tools to train colleagues and support staff within a local branch or office environment by using existing computers and Internet connections.

Advisors use two main iLinc components: The Communications Center, a Web site where users can view the LearnLinc online training courses, register for a course, use course materials, and join live classes, meetings, conferences or support rooms. The iLinc Client provides an online work area and session tools, including audio conferencing, breakout groups, a whiteboard to post information, a synchronized web browser, text chat, and application sharing capabilities.

Another benefit is easy access to in-depth online training on IPC Advisor Connect - a separate client management, communication, reporting and marketing tool for advisors designed to help them drive assets under management, build stronger client relationships and streamline business processes. Better knowledge of IPC Advisor Connect can help advisors learn when it is appropriate to offer insurance or estate planning products and services to clients versus banking or credit card products, delivering the right products and services to clients at the right time.

"Financial planning is more than building an investment portfolio. Our advisors work with their clients to provide the very best solutions whether it's for a mortgage, chequing account, life insurance and even RESPs for a child's education," said Reynolds. "That's why our goal is to provide our advisors with the tools to continue the education process by using online training services to make their day-to-day activities as simple and effective as possible, giving them more time to focus on what really matters - the client."

Investment Planning Counsel is a member of the IGM Financial Inc. group of companies.