Search
 

Think Big, Act Small

Carriers need to drive dynamic distribution channels.

By Deb Smallwood | Updated on September 03, 2012
The momentum behind the integration of communication and information is unstoppable. The profound explosion in the use of mobile communication is forever changing the way people interact in both personal and business relationships. Insurers and agents are being challenged to meet customer expectations that are largely being set outside the insurance industry. As communications and information technologies continue to explode, consumers will expect offers and service on their terms.

Re-think, Re-energize, Re-tool

The importance of being equipped to manage and navigate expanding distribution channels increases daily. Channels need to be exceptionally fluid. The bottom line? Insurers must be able to provide communications any way a customer wants to receive them. Unfortunately, customers’ preferences don’t always align with how insurers would like to deliver them. Providing a quote via a website works for some customers, but it doesn’t work for all. While mobile apps are gaining traction daily, they are not the answer for everyone. The fact is that it is no longer a one-size-fits-all market.

It’s time to re-think, re-energize, and re-tool distribution capabilities. Insurers must have middle- and back-office systems that are ready to send and receive any type of data, whether structured or unstructured, via any device, method, or platform. Sales and servicing capabilities must be able to manage all interactions with customers and prospects, claimants, agents/brokers, and third parties. Now is the right time to think big and think broad—to create the architecture that will deliver the flexibility—and then to start small, with one project, one device, one method at a time.

Want to continue reading?
Become a Free
PropertyCasualty360 Digital Reader.

INCLUDED IN A DIGITAL MEMBERSHIP:

  • All PropertyCasualty360.com news coverage, best practices, and in-depth analysis.
  • Educational webcasts, resources from industry leaders, and informative newsletters.
  • Other award-winning websites including BenefitsPRO.com and ThinkAdvisor.com.

Already have an account?

NOT FOR REPRINT

© 2024 ALM Global, LLC, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to [email protected]. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.

Recommended Stories

PropertyCasualty360

Join PropertyCasualty360

Don’t miss crucial news and insights you need to make informed decisions for your P&C insurance business. Join PropertyCasualty360.com now!

  • Unlimited access to PropertyCasualty360.com - your roadmap to thriving in a disrupted environment
  • Access to other award-winning ALM websites including BenefitsPRO.com, ThinkAdvisor.com and Law.com
  • Exclusive discounts on PropertyCasualty360, National Underwriter, Claims and ALM events

Already have an account? Sign In Now
Join PropertyCasualty360

Copyright © 2024 ALM Global, LLC. All Rights Reserved.