(Editor's Note: The following is an opinion piece by Christopher Tidball, an executive claims consultant and author of multiple books. The views expressed therein do not reflect those of PropertyCasualty360.com. Rather, they are intended to spark dialogue about optimization within readers' respective claims organizations.)

Price is often a primary consideration in many of our buying decisions, but does it ever get in the way of doing the right thing? 

When buying a home, is it worth skimping on price if it means bad schools for your children or a high crime rate? When buying a car, would one forsake safety for a low price? These same considerations should play out when making crucial business decisions, in particular in claims departments where outcomes have far bigger ramifications than simple cost savings.