Most employers are still learning about private exchanges, with over half being familiar but only 6.4% currently using them. The top perceived benefits are helping employees make more cost-conscious choices and offering a wider array of options. When setting up an exchange, employers want tools for plan comparison, online access, consolidated enrollment and billing. Attributes like COBRA compliance and carrier integration are also important. Most employers learn about exchanges from independent research, brokers and consultants rather than carriers or third-party administrators.