The rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) are revolutionizing the insurance industry. AI is dramatically altering the way insurers assess risk, process claims, and interact with customers. This will eventually lead to more accurate pricing, improved customer experiences, and streamlined operations. This article will explore four key AI-related trends shaping the insurance industry, examine the state of insurance for the upcoming year, and provide guidance on how insurers can prepare for accelerating changes.
Four AI-related trends shaping insurance
1) Explosion of data from connected devices
The rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) has led to an unprecedented explosion of data from connected devices such as wearables, smart homes, and telematics. This wealth of data could allow insurers to better understand their customers’ behavior and risk profiles, leading to more accurate risk assessment, pricing and personalized policies. It also enables insurers to develop new products and services tailored to specific customer segments.
2) Increased prevalence of physical robotics
The adoption of robotics and automation in various industries is leading to significant changes in the risk landscape. Recently developed sensors and chips that usually are installed in hybrid, electric and autonomous vehicles have the potential to dramatically reduce the frequency and severity of accidents, while drones can be used to inspect infrastructure and assess damages more efficiently. Insurers need to adapt their underwriting and pricing models to account for these shifts in risk.
3) Open-source and data ecosystems
As AI technologies become more accessible and affordable, we’re witnessing the rise of open-source and data ecosystems. These platforms provide insurers with the tools to develop custom AI-based solutions and access to large volumes of anonymized, aggregated data. This enables insurers to accelerate their AI adoption and leverage shared knowledge to drive innovation.
4) Advances in cognitive technologies
Cognitive technologies such as natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning (ML) are enabling insurers to automate complex tasks, such as analyzing big chunks of data, underwriting and claims processing. This not only leads to increased efficiency but also frees up human resources to focus on high-value activities that require human judgement and empathy.
The state of insurance for 2024
In 2024, the insurance industry will be significantly transformed by AI-related technologies, with changes occurring across distribution, underwriting and pricing, and claims processing. It’s important for us all to keep ourselves up to date with the new developments.
Distribution
Digital channels will become the primary means of insurance distribution, with AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants providing personalized advice and product recommendations. Millennials stand out for their technology use, but older generations also embrace digital tools. Inszone Insurance, a company with years of experience in cyber liability and cybersecurity, is already leveraging AI-driven tools to improve customer interactions and offer targeted solutions and tackling the needs of a society that dwells in the digital world.
Underwriting and pricing
AI-driven algorithms will increasingly be used to analyze vast amounts of data, allowing insurers to assess risk more accurately and efficiently. This will lead to more personalized and dynamic pricing models, catering to both wider demographics and individual customers’ needs and behaviors.
Claims
The claims process will be streamlined through the use of AI-powered tools. For example, image recognition technologies will be employed to assess damages, and ML algorithms will be used to detect fraudulent claims. This will result in faster claim processing times and reduced costs for insurers.
How insurers can prepare for accelerating changes?
To stay ahead in this rapidly evolving landscape, insurers should focus on the following four key areas:
1. Get smart on AI-related technologies and trends
Insurers must invest in understanding AI technologies, their potential applications, and the implications for their businesses. This knowledge will enable them to identify new opportunities and stay ahead of emerging risks.
2. Develop and begin implementation of a coherent strategic plan
A comprehensive strategic plan should be developed to guide insurers’ AI adoption, addressing areas such as data management, technology integration, and organizational change management.
3. Create and execute a comprehensive data strategy
A data strategy is crucial for insurers to effectively leverage AI. This involves identifying relevant data sources, ensuring data quality, and implementing robust data governance practices. Insurers should also explore partnerships with external data providers to access valuable insights and augment their internal data capabilities.
4. Create the right talent and technology infrastructure
Insurers need to build a workforce with the right mix of AI and domain expertise, as well as invest in the necessary technology infrastructure to support AI initiatives. This includes upskilling existing employees, recruiting new talent, and forging partnerships with universities and AI research institutions.
In conclusion, AI is having a profound impact on the insurance industry, shaping every aspect of the business from risk assessment to customer interactions. By staying informed about AI trends, developing strategic plans, and investing in data and talent, insurers can successfully navigate this new landscape and capitalize on the opportunities AI presents. Companies like Inszone Insurance have already begun to leverage AI-driven tools to enhance their offerings and improve customer experiences, demonstrating the potential of AI to transform the industry. Get a free quote today.
Jasmine Cordova, PCIA
