Rather than getting caught up in the hype over new sources of Big Data, many insurers should instead consider going back to basics and reinvent their entire information management approach to get the most value out of the treasure trove of material theyve already been collecting for years.

Insurers trying to contain cyber risks face a tricky balancing act between the desire to build an impenetrable digital fortress and demands from staff, intermediaries, and consumers for faster and easier data access.

When insurers talk about mobile technology, the conversation usually revolves around smartphones, but at some point soon such discussions will likely be broadened to include the possible use of drone aircraft for claims management.

Insurers are typically focused on key economic indicators to gain some insight into whether their particular lines of business will likely be riding a wave or swimming against the tide in the near term, yet the biggest factors impacting their prospects right now might be more cultural in nature.

While insurers have adapted basic online services for mobile platforms, they should capitalize on the unique capabilities of smartphones and tablets to engage more fully with both clients and their own personnel.

With usage-based programs still relatively new to the auto insurance industry, it would be understandable if some carriers were wondering what the return on investment might be when it comes to telematics.

Convincing consumers to take the plunge and allow their driving performance to be monitored via telematics is only half the battle for carriers transitioning to a usage-based auto insurance program.

Turning raw driving data into actionable insights is a major challenge facing insurers trying to turn the corner and write usage-based auto coverage profitably.