When it comes to developing IT systems and procedures for efficient letting and property management, Leaders - the UK's largest independent letting agency - is living up to its name. The company has had major input into the best lettings system in the UK, Aspasia, which it has been using in its sixteen branches for the last 18 months.

Leaders worked closely with software house SPA Microsystems for many months to help complete Aspasia, a browser-based system that incorporates the numerous proven systems and procedures that Leaders had already been using for more than twenty years. The system, which brings Leaders' decades of experience, procedures and industry 'best practice' together into one cohesive and easy-to-use package, is now the envy of all in the industry.

Leaders has recently been approached by a number of other large, established agents for their help and advice in installing Aspasia in their own businesses and the company is now offering training to other agents' staff since no one knows both the system and the industry as well as Leaders.

Said Joint Managing Director, Paul Weller: "As you can imagine, we have developed dozens of routines, procedures and practices over the twenty-one years we have been in business which have enabled us to let and manage our thousands of properties, landlords and tenants efficiently, and with the personal touch that we, and they, value so much. Now, for the first time, these tried-and-tested procedures have been brought together in one IT package with tremendous benefits to our clients and staff. It is therefore no surprise that other agents recognise its value; and the fact that they want to use it is a great endorsement for the way we run our business."

A key feature is that data on the web site is always 100% up to date as the web site feeds on the same live data as is being used by staff within the branches. Leaders are keen to exploit other functionality such as the ability for clients to pay their fees on-line and landlords to have on-line access to their accounts and property management information 24 hours a day.

Weller explains: "Because Aspasia is based on an Oracle platform, the system runs off a single database meaning that information is shared right across the business, and the management information and report writing facilities are virtually limitless. We can make any of our data instantly and securely available to whomever we wish to see it, and this means there is no end to the number of ways in which we can use this technology to offer an even better, more comprehensive service to our clients."

By thinking carefully about how it can improve every aspect of its service, Leaders is also ensuring that it stays well ahead of the competition. Since the company was set up in 1983, its directors have striven to improve standards in the lettings industry - by campaigning for legislation to protect landlords and tenants and by providing a high quality service which sets the standard for its competitors. The way in which it has developed and implemented Aspasia in its business is yet another way in which Leaders is setting the benchmark for a better lettings industry.

Note: This article was produced by Leaders and published in Estate Agency News in May 2004