The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) has announced a new category within its Technology Accreditation scheme; “Client Communications” and ClientWindow is the first solution to be accredited in this new category.

Launched in the Channel Islands, ClientWindow is an innovative communications platform that seamlessly integrates WhatsApp and WeChat with email for compliant client communications.

The ICAEW Technology Accreditation scheme assures firms that accredited products meet high standards in quality, security, and functionality. Through a rigorous evaluation process, ICAEW assesses solutions for regulatory compliance, data security, user experience, and industry adaptability, enabling firms to confidently adopt innovations that enhance client service and operational efficiency.

The launch of this new category underscores the growing importance of chat-based client communications for businesses – not just as a necessary ingredient for success but also as a critical requirement for secure and compliant communications. Especially significant for accountants, ClientWindow is also able to integrate WhatsApp conversations with industry software including Hubdoc, Dext, Apron and AutoEntry. ClientWindow’s achievement as the first platform to meet ICAEW’s rigorous standards for client communication is a noteworthy accomplishment, setting a new benchmark in innovation for the industry.

Craig McLellan, manager of the ICAEW Technology Accreditation Scheme, commented, “We are delighted that ClientWindow has been accredited by the ICAEW. It is important that we continue to give members the ability to review independently evaluated software that embraces the rapid changes in technology which is reshaping the finance and accountancy markets.’

Developed by Chartered Accountants David Moehle and Tim Zeale, ClientWindow was created to bridge the gap between client expectations for instant messaging and the regulatory demands for data retention in financial services. The platform uniquely allows clients to communicate seamlessly via WhatsApp or WeChat, while professional teams manage responses through their normal email platforms, thereby maintaining compliance and operational efficiency.

Tim Zeale, co-founder of ClientWindow, commented, “Receiving ICAEW’s Technology Accreditation in this new category is a proud moment for our team and a testament to the value ClientWindow brings to professional service firms. This accreditation assures our users that they can communicate effectively with their clients through a platform that not only facilitates real-time messaging but also upholds the highest standards of client communications and regulatory compliance.”

The new category and ClientWindow’s accreditation represent a shift in client communication, aligning with modern industry standards. By integrating messaging apps like WhatsApp and WeChat with email and practice management tools, ClientWindow seamlessly connects client-preferred messaging and business-level communication, offering a forward-thinking approach to digital client relations.