technology

Evolution not revolution

The race to develop accelerated products has driven life insurers to cautiously embrace the next generation of data.

One of the most frequently-used phrases at business events these days is “the future of work.” It’s increasingly clear that artificial intelligence and other new technologies will bring substantial changes in work tasks and business processes. But while these changes are predicted for the future, they’re already present in many organizations for many different jobs.

Kyobo Life Insurance announced on October 30 that its AI-based underwriting system, known as Best Analysis and Rapid Outcome (BARO), is now fully operational.
 

Now, there’s a movement in the insurance industry to leverage new forms of surveillance to assess risk during the underwriting process of life insurance policies (the process of assessing a potential customer’s risk).

Life underwriting professionals are experiencing a paradigm shift in modus operandi, driven by the introduction of automation initiatives. Multiple consulting studies and analyses indicate that automation in underwriting is a valid business need. The coevolution of humans and technology must be supported by business strategies that focus on identifying necessary underwriting skill sets. The convergence of the art of underwriting and the science of technology presents many challenges. Insurers and reinsurers must plan accordingly.

Life Insurance Industry Trends Insurtech Survey 2019

Lest anyone think the previous exchange is fanciful or seems a bit paranoid, it is already happening. It is known as using accelerated underwriting using external data and over two dozen U.S. insurers are currently using it.

The pressure is on for carriers to provide the best customer experience, while implementing consistent, comprehensive and accurate underwriting policies.  Advanced e-underwriting systems can help insurers respond.

Epigenetics is poised to improve the underwriting process, moving beyond deep venous puncture blood collection and a lengthy approval process that takes months to complete.