Generally, modern claims systems provide integrated workflow management and task or process management and most come with some level of document generation and document management, adds Carnahan.

“User interfaces have dramatically improved with easily navigable screens and easy-to-find contextual help,” she says. “Adjuster portals, wizards to open new claims, scripting, and recursive questioning all allow carriers to create very intuitive processes and deliver consistent service. With these kinds of features, it is no wonder that we are seeing a continuing interest in replacing core claims systems.”

Based on a recent survey of members of the Novarica Insurance Technology Research Council, over 30 percent of respondents say that claims is one of the top three projects they are focusing on for 2011, reports Carnahan.

“This highlights the degree to which carriers are investing in new claims functionality,” she says.

Companies and products profiled in the report include Accenture, AGO Insurance Software, Aon eSolutions, BlueWave Technology, Brightwork, CGI, CS STARS, CSC Advanced Claims, CSC Exceed Claims, CSC RiskMaster, David Corporation, DRC, Exigen, Fineos, Finys, Guidewire, Innovation Group, ISCS, JW Software, LexisNexis, MajescoMastek, Maximum Processing, Oracle, Paradox Technology Solutions, PCIS, Ravello Solutions, SAP, StoneRiver Claims Workstation, StoneRiver PowerSuite, Systema, TCS, Tropics Software Technologies, and Wyde.

An outline of the report is available online at http://www.novarica.com/report_pcclaims_2011/. The report is free to Novarica insurance clients.