After weeks of beta testing, Eigensoft (www.eigensoft.com) is set to releaseits ClaimsAgent mobile claims software solution for handheldwireless devices this month. Field testing ran for a month as eageradjusters pushed the software and related hardware devices-infraredprinter, digital camera, and handheld unit-to the edge of insurancesanity.

The property-estimation software is used by field propertyadjusters to complete estimate reports on site, print them forreview by the insured, then transmit the data via a secure Internetconnection to a back-end claims processing server.

A workflow example in more detail: The adjuster receivesproperty loss form (ACORD form 1 in XML format) electronically; hereviews loss description as well as the property and records dataand produces real time estimates using ClaimsAgent; he then settleswith the insured and produces the report; the report is transmittedwirelessly and securely via the Internet; the report is routed tothe appropriate system; administrators inspect, print, and reviewthe XML-based report; the report is processed and committed to theinsured's account.

As remaining property loss information is entered, the adjusterhas the option of including photographs from a digital camera. Uponsatisfaction with the finished report, he can generate acomprehensive hard copy using the portable infrared printer.

As of its first beta release, ClaimsAgent features ancillarysupport template files, customizable user preferences, propertyloss notification data import via Net-based wireless messaging, aclaims estimate data package, screen view menu and navigation bar,custom integration per enterprise, and more. Plans for pen-basedand voice-to-text functionality are in the works.

The base hardware requirements for ClaimsAgent include theCompaq iPAQ 3650 handheld computer, wireless modem, 32MB of CompactFlash storage, Compact Flash-compatible digital camera, protableIrDA (infrared) printer, and wireless Internet account access.Based on the 'you buy the hardware, we provide software' approach,Eigensoft believes ClaimsAgent, once operating with theperipherals, makes for a complete field adjuster's property lossclaims solution.