Mobility is the most important digital technology priority for large enterprises, according to a new global study by Accenture has found, as 77% of global C-suite leaders identify it as a top five priority. Big data analytics came next with 72% putting it in the top five, followed by connected products at 65%.

Technological integration is the foundation for success in any business, and the insurance industry is no exception. Implementing technological advances, whether it is through mobile apps, cloud computing, social media or analytic tools, technology serves to drive market differentiation, business growth, innovation, adaptability, collaboration and profitability.

To examine how companies are using digital technologies in a technological age, Accenture surveyed nearly 1,500 C-level executives at companies in 14 countries, including 150 insurers. Its research led to four identifiable conclusions about the integration of technology in the business setting, listed in the Accenture Mobility Insights Report 2014:

• Strategic investment. Respondents view investment in digital technologies as being strategic, enabling them to engage with customers and promote growth, rather than being an addition to preexisting IT landscapes.
• Aggressive adoption. Companies are moving to adopt mobile technologies and applications that help them achieve specific business objectives and developing strategies to guide their efforts.
• Mobility challenges. In many cases, organizational and operational shortcomings have made it difficult for companies to take full advantage of mobile capabilities. Often, there can be a lack of formal metrics to measure effectiveness of efforts, as well as insufficient funding for mobile priorities.
• Mobility leaders. These "mobility leaders" are distinguished in Accenture's research as companies that are more ambitious, strategic and implement a cross-company approach to mobility that is backed by involvement with senior leadership. Substantial monetary commitment is also in place to support the development of mobile capabilities.

Click through the following slides to learn more about Accenture's key findings.