Mutual fund firms are behind the curve in using available multimedia technology on their advisor Web sites, according to a recent Corporate Insight report. Alan Maginn, senior analyst for Corporate Insight's Mutual Fund Monitor Advisor publication, said just three of 16 firms examined in the study are using live Web casts. Other multimedia functions, like downloadable videos or podcasts, are becoming more widespread. Earlier this month, Fidelity Investments launched podcasts for investors ­ a move that followed similar programs at T. Rowe Price, The Vanguard Group and others (www.fundaction.com, 7/3). Maginn said 12 of the 16 firms had some kind of multimedia content on their advisor sites.

Live Web casts could be particularly beneficial to advisors because it would enable them to ask questions to the funds directly. Those Web casts could then be made available to other advisors who were unable to participate, allowing them to hear answers to their peers' questions. The report surveyed the Web sites of 16 firms tracked regularly by the company.