Celent studies how social media affect insurers’ internal operations

Increased transparency across the organization and improved project results are two key benefits of adopting a social media strategy, states a new report from research firm Celent.

It notes insurers are using social media technology for internal staff, external

partners and customers. But the “business case for implementing social technologies is challenging,” according to the analysis, Collaboration and Insurance 2.0: An Overview of Social Software and Enterprise 2.0 for Insurers.

“Some insurers, recognizing the value of sharing and openness across very large organizations, are now engaging in adoption programs seeking a change in culture rather than concrete benefits,” the report says.

The report examines social media projects from Swiss Re, Allianz Life, Torus Insurance and HDFC Standard Life. It cites the five main advantages of collaborative software as timeliness, visibility, discovery, sharing and crossing of boundaries.

“Complex tasks…that rely on people adapting to demand require a different approach,” Celent observes. “In this case, collaboration software can provide a means to allow an enterprise to adapt.”

The full report can be accessed at: http://www.celent.com/reports/collaboration-and-insurance-20-overview-social-software-and-enterprise-20-insurers