From AI integration and enhanced data access to significant time savings, PlannerPal CEO Mark Whitcroft talks about the Iress and PlannerPal partnership that's revolutionising financial advice in the UK.
Q: Mark, congratulations on becoming the first official member of the new Iress Partnership. Why did PlannerPal make this move?
Mark: Thank you - we’re genuinely excited about what this enables, because it isn't just about integration; it’s about co-creating a smarter advice experience.
PlannerPal has always focused on saving advisers time, but this step takes us further: embedding AI deeply into the advice workflow. It’s about joining forces with Iress to align on the roadmap, user experience, and the data foundation that underpins great advice.
Q: What new capabilities does the partnership unlock?
Mark: With enhanced access to over 1,000 data fields across Xplan (10x more than most third-party tools can reach), we’re now able to drive comprehensive fact-finds, richer CRM automation, and instantly pre-filled reports, all powered by real-time data sync.
But this partnership is more than just deeper API access - it’s a truly joined-up approach between our teams. PlannerPal is working directly with Iress Product, Engineering, and Support teams to co-develop features, align on roadmap priorities, and deliver solutions to the problems advisers care about most.
That collaboration means faster feature delivery, tighter quality control, and a feedback loop driven by real user needs. We’re embedded in Iress user groups and advisory forums, so everything we build is guided by live adviser input - not assumptions.
Firms are telling us they’re saving 30–60 minutes per client by automating meeting notes, writing reports faster, and syncing updates directly to Xplan.
Founder & CEO PlannerPal
As a result, PlannerPal can now suggest CRM field updates, auto-save generated documents to the Xplan client file, and enrich reports and meeting notes using Xplan and other client data - all auditable, adviser-controlled, and fully compliant.
This isn’t AI bolted on - it’s embedded at the core of the adviser’s daily workflow.
Q: What’s been the feedback from firms using PlannerPal with Xplan so far?
Mark: The reaction has been incredibly positive. Firms are telling us they’re saving 30–60 minutes per client by automating meeting notes, writing reports faster, and syncing updates directly to Xplan their CRM. That’s not just saved time - it’s better compliance, higher data quality, and more consistent client service.
Q: What’s next for the Partnership?
Mark: We’re working closely with Iress Product and Engineering teams, and - importantly - with mutual clients to shape the roadmap together. This co-innovation model is what makes the Iress partnership different. We’re not just integrating tools; we’re building the future of advice, together.
Expect continued improvements to data quality dashboards, more AI-powered insights from adviser-client conversations, and deeper automation across the advice lifecycle.
Q: What would you say to firms considering trying PlannerPal?
Mark: Now’s the time. The free trial gives full access to our customisable meeting notes, report writer, and CRM updater. Setup takes under five minutes, and we support you every step of the way.
If you’re using Xplan, this isn’t just about AI productivity gains - it’s about aligning your data strategy and your AI strategy. If those aren’t working together, you’re just creating another disconnected data lake. With PlannerPal, every interaction makes your data better, your advice faster, and your client outcomes stronger.
Ready to try PlannerPal?
Visit plannerpal.co.uk/sign-up or speak to your Iress Account Manager.
