All-New Collaboration Center FAQ - Live September 23, 2024

1. When will my clients start seeing the new version of the Collaboration Center?
   • The new version will go live on September 23, 2024.
2. Will my clients’ current URLs still work after the update?
   • Existing URLs in email notifications will automatically redirect to the new version. However, previously bookmarked original Collaboration Center links might have expired and show an error message. The new links do not expire! Clients should open a recent notification email for the Collaboration Center and bookmark the new link for continuous access. You can also resend the Welcome email from Paragon Connect or Paragon Classic.
     
3. Will there be any downtime or interruptions during the transition to the new version?
   • No, there will be no downtime or interruptions. Once it is live, the next time your clients visit their Collaboration Center site, it will be the new version.
4. How do I let my client know about the change?
   • We’ve created an email template you can use to notify your clients before the new version goes live. There will also be a post-launch template to inform them once the update is live.

     Additionally, when your clients visit the Collaboration Center, they will see an in-site pop-up with a link to helpful videos if they’d like to learn more. While the site is intuitive enough that they won’t need these videos, we understand that some clients may prefer to watch a short tutorial.

     Update! Click here to access the template to let your clients know the new Collaboration Center is live. It includes information about bookmarks, email notifications, and how to ensure a smooth transition.

5. Has the process for setting up a Collaboration Center site changed?
   • No, the setup process remains the same as it is now.
6. How can I explain the new features to my clients?
   • When you access your client’s site from their contact record in Paragon Classic or Paragon Connect, you are taken into an Agent Mode version of the site. It looks exactly like what the client sees, except their name will display as ‘Agent Mode on [Client’s Name]’s site,’ and any comments you make will appear under your name. This will help you navigate the site while assisting your client.
7. Will there be any changes to how clients interact with saved searches or notifications?
   • There are no changes to the email notifications your clients receive. However, the dashboard has been updated. It now uses widgets to display the number of updates and activity since the last visit, including new matches, price changes, and quick links to matched listings and recommendations. The dashboard no longer shows the thumbnail view of listings. Clients can quickly access listings and features like favorite, possible, or rejected listings, and respond to unread comments.
8. What if my client doesn’t like the new version? Is there a way to revert to the old version?
   • There is no way to revert to the old version. However, if you have any feedback, you can send it to technology@therae.com, and we will work with Paragon to improve the Collaboration Center site.
9. Are there any training courses available to learn more about the updates?
   • Yes, we’re offering both in-person and online Collaboration Center courses on September 26 from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. You can sign up on the Member Portal.
10. My agent image looks squished, stretched, or flattened. How can I fix this?
    • To avoid this issue, ensure your agent image is a square. If it’s not, you can use a third-party tool like imagy.app to resize it before uploading it to Paragon. For instructions on updating your image for the Collaboration Center and email notifications, click here.
11. What should do if my client reports an issue with the new version?
    • If you or your client are having any issues, please call the MLS® Help Desk at 780-453-9341 or email technology@therae.com. To assist with troubleshooting, it is always helpful to know the device, browser, email provider, or any screenshots of errors to help pinpoint the issue.
12. What are the benefits of using the Collaboration Center compared to email notifications?
    • Auto email notifications provide simple alerts with hyperlinks to new or updated listings, but these links only remain active for 90 days and don’t accumulate matches. The Collaboration Center, on the other hand, centralizes all listings in one place, allowing your clients to easily access and review properties over time. It also enables you to categorize listings into folders and add comments, making it easier to understand your clients’ preferences based on their interactions. This feature-rich platform not only streamlines the notification process but also creates a more engaging and collaborative experience for your clients.

Client Email Template