The ACA as a whole still stands, but myriad revisions and tweaks are keeping HR managers on their toes.

Top brokers suggest that communication and organization are key to more effective business practices.

This year's outstanding brokers embrace disruption and new ways of thinking about the benefits industry, and they emphasize their roles as consultants who provide a range of services.

Julie Freidus is not only a top producer for Brown and Brown Insurance, she also plays a key role training other brokers at the firm.

Brummitt says that if he has a criticism of the benefits industry, it's that it hasn't kept up with the rest of the world when it comes to providing clients with a consumer-friendly product.

This year's exemplary group of finalsts embrace disruption and new ways of thinking about the benefits industry, and they emphasize their roles as consultants who provide a range of services.

"Our model is a little bit different," Beth Robertson says. "We're very client-focused."

Billy Potter says his approach to being a broker emphasizes the fundamentals. "It's really just basic blocking and tackling."