Agency Technology

As far as going direct, it depends on the line of business. When you get into the more complex lines—at least on the property/casualty side—you don't see [the direct channel], but for the personal lines—particularly personal auto—there is definitely more inclination to go direct.

FEMA is now set up to use Twitter for all stages of an emergency.

Laura M. Toops provides insight on new growth.

One of the things that has fascinated me in covering the insurance industry in these changing times is the evolving relationship carriers have with their agent/partners.

Question-answering systems such as IBM's "Jeopardy!"-winning Watson are only 3-to-5 years away from general business usage. What is the implication for insurance agents? AA&B Editor Laura Toops talks to Jamie Bisker, IBM industry solutions representative, about both the fears and the anticipation surrounding the advance of this new technology.

Agents and brokers for State Farm and Farmers Insurance are gaining a new tool that will aid them in developing and maintaining a social media strategy while at the same time staying compliant with regulations and branding missions.