[caption id="attachment_133455" align="aligncenter" width="616"] Inquiring minds want to know what the future holds for the insurance industry and independent agents. (Photo: Shutterstock)[/caption] Everyone wants to know what the future holds for the insurance industry, especially independent insurance agents whose livelihood depends on understanding trends. But depending on where those agents are located and the kind of business they currently write, the answers to the question of what the future holds are different. From technology to staffing to competition, here is what several top independent agents think is coming for the insurance industry over the next several years. These agents, recognized recently at Travelers' agent conference, shared their thoughts on where their industry is going and what independent agents may have to do to remain viable. See also: Tips from 7 top insurance agents on recruiting new talent Executive profile: PIA National CEO Mike Becker National Underwriter to honor the finest agencies