Business Integration in the Insurance Industry: The Intermediary Side of the Question

Abstract

The insurance business bases heavily on data, information and knowledge processing. Hence, entities in the business need great connectivity and articulation between themselves. Information and Communication Technologies and Information Systems can provide that connectivity, both intra- and interorganizations, making it possible for participants to come closer and dialog better, reducing response times and costs, improving service to clients and, possibly, creating new business opportunities. In this chapter, we investigate, by means of a case study, how far the business of an intermediary integrates with other entities, using an electronic business platform built on Internet technologies. The conclusions drawn cannot be generalized to the whole industry. However, we firmly believe that they expose the problems faced by intermediaries and insurance companies in this industry all over the world when trying to integrate their business, and offer how the problems can be overcome so partners can fully benefit from the opportunities identified.