Using Emerging Technology for Competitive Advantage: A Near-Term Guide for Life/Health Insurers

Some insurers are already using emerging technologies, while others haven稚 even started to research their potential use. This ever-widening gap will allow some carriers to gain預nd most likely sustain預 competitive advantage.

In a new report, "Using Emerging Technology for Competitive Advantage: A Near-Term Guide for L/H Insurers," Celent examines these technologies and how carriers should be using them.

Emerging technologies that are already in use by consumers or other industries預nd in some cases a handful of insurers預nd are being increasingly considered by carriers include open source software, new wireless technologies, and VoIP.

Other less mature technologies are starting to be piloted or at least investigated by carriers. These include grid, cluster, and/or utility computing, multifunction cell phones, as well as electronic forms, such as e-applications that leverage e-signatures or digital pens and paper. Other technologies are just now getting to market, such as WiMAX and 3G, new wireless technologies that will allow for always-on, broadband connections virtually anywhere.

"In general, carriers need to improve their use of technology in order to cut costs, boost revenues, and stay competitive with potential entrants to the industry," said Chad Hersh, a senior analyst in Celent痴 insurance practice and author of the report. "Carriers need to focus on quick wins and high-ROI projects to help develop a culture that supports leveraging emerging technologies. Doing so could lead to short-term and long-term benefits for carriers that embrace them."

The report also examines the likely adoption rates for certain key technologies.

A similar report, "Using Emerging Technology for Competitive Advantage: A Near-Term Guide for P/ C Insurers," is also available and covers emerging technologies for property/casualty carriers.

The 25-page report contains six tables and three figures.

of Celent's Life/Health Insurance research service can download the report electronically by clicking on the icon to the left. Non-members should contact info@celent.com for more information.