Open Architecture with Intent: Building a Smarter Tech Ecosystem with Dessy Prasad

In episode 166 of Milemarker's Next Mile, host Kyle Van Pelt speaks with Dessy Prasad, COO at Northwest Asset Management and RIA Innovations, about how advisory firms can build a technology ecosystem around a central hub instead of simply adding more tools. The discussion covers intentional customization of advisor workflows, what to evaluate before adopting AI tools that handle client data, when outsourcing makes sense, using CRM workflows to keep onboarding on track, and keeping cybersecurity and compliance at the center of technology decisions.

1. Prasad argues a healthy ecosystem is not about adding many tools but having a platform where everything has a purpose
2. The conversation covers building a connected tech ecosystem around a central hub and customizing workflows without creating operational chaos
3. The firm describes how it evaluates AI tools, including those that handle client data, with compliance built into the evaluation
4. CRM workflows are discussed as a way to keep client onboarding on track, alongside when outsourcing starts to make sense