What’s New: In Brief (June 11, 2007)

The average number of deals involving insurance carriers purchasing software rose 42% by quarter from 2005 to 2006, according to an annual deal trends study issued by Celent.Of the deals analyzed, 43% were between vendors and totally new customers. Core systems and document management are particular focus areas, senior analyst Craig Weber, author Insurance Software Deal Trends: 2005-2006, said in a release. But most carriers are looking for ways to improve services and operational efficiency across the board.According to data compiled in the report, deal flow continues to be on the rise, leading Celent to the conclusion that insurers are looking for business solutions

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has picked the Hyundai Sante FE, a midsize SUV, to receive the Top Safety Pick designation. The SUV is equipped with electronic stability control and side airbags for all three rows of seating and received a top rating for front, side and rear crash protection. The performance of the Sante Fe makes good on Hyundais promise to provide the highest level of safety to its customers, Adrian Lund, president of the Insurance Institute said in a release. In the minivan category, the Hyundai Entourage and the Kia Sedona earned Top Safety Pick recognition.