I read about the development of technology to control your computer using sounds. It made me smile as I immediately thought about the TV commercial for the Clapper. Clap on, clap off. Take a look at this video to see the latest incarnation of the Clapper. I’m not sure what the practical implications of this technology might be – but your computer could become an awesome light switch. … [Read more...]
Point, Shoot, and Shop
A new iPhone application allows you to find detailed information on any product simply by taking a picture of it. With the SnapTell Explorer application, you can take a picture of a book—and within seconds the screen will display the right book with reviews, links to other Web sites (including a Wikipedia entry), and online prices from multiple retailers. Welcome to the future of shopping. How does it work? According to SnapTell, "SnapTell … [Read more...]
Industry Use of Technology—The Latest Numbers
The latest Future One Agency Universe Study was recently released by the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers. This study is considered one of the most comprehensive sources of information about the independent agency distribution system. Since 2000 the study has been completed biannually. The most recent study was conducted in the spring and summer of 2008 and included 1,874 respondents. Ninety percent of those responding were agency … [Read more...]
You Could Be a Technology Star
National Underwriter, in partnership with the ACORD LOMA Insurance Systems Forum, invites entries for the second annual NU Agency Technology Achievement Award. Multi-line agencies are encouraged to enter their own IT programs for consideration. However, insurers, managing general agencies, and tech vendors are also welcome to nominate an agency for NU to contact about entering the award program—although a third-party nomination is not required … [Read more...]
Take our 17th Annual Technology Self-Test
Increasing efficiency and effectiveness are the key factors to maintaining profitability. Making sure that your agency is receiving the maximum benefit from your technology investment is the first step. This technology audit self-test is published each year as a tool to help you measure how well you are currently using technology in your agency. As extra incentive, every agency that completes the survey will have immediate access to download the … [Read more...]
Thriving in Difficult Times
It’s hard to read the headlines without thinking about the future of your agency. Many agencies wonder what business will be like over the next 12 to 24 months. Due to the soft marketplace over the last couple of years, insurance agencies have already had to create plans to address lower premiums—and thus, lower revenues. Premium reductions continue to average about 12%. As sales volumes are reduced and as businesses cut back on payroll, you … [Read more...]
HIGH-TECC 2008
Approximately 80 people gathered in Vail, Colo. in July to spend 2½ days exploring how the insurance industry can bridge the many gaps that stand in the way of continued success. I always return home from HIGH-TECC amazed and humbled. I am amazed by the creativity, passion, and willingness to explore new ideas that is demonstrated by the people who attend. I'm also humbled by the knowledge and breadth of experience that is represented in such a … [Read more...]
