Blink your eyes these days and it's possible you could miss the latest technological advances. It seems that almost daily there is a new and improved version of a technology or software program that just came out the week before. For insurers, this means a dizzying array of products to track and try at industry trade shows.

And then there are the apps — you know there's one for just about any type of activity you can imagine. Savvy insurers understand that technology, social media, instant communication and applications are critical to reaching their customers and potential clients. Many are partnering with technology companies to deliver the information and level of service insureds expect 24/7. They don't necessarily want to talk to someone, but they do want to be able to search for the answers to their questions online, get feedback and updates instantaneously, and comparison shop all from their mobile device any time day or night.

While we can't possibly highlight every new innovation available to the industry (because there are so many and a newer version would probably be out by the time this magazine hits your desk), we are trying to highlight some of the new products that are critical to your business, will make your employees' lives better or are just plain cool to see. Some of them are featured here and more of them will be highlighted on PropertyCasualty360.com in the coming weeks. Our hope is that this overview will encourage you to seek more information on some of these advances and incorporate them into your own workflows.