AI - Learning How to be Aware, Not Scared

AI is used in our everyday lives in ways you might not have even known. Whether that is using Siri for Apple users, Alexa on Google home devices, or even on a deeper level of having software help compose an email draft, it is becoming unavoidable. You might ask, were those first two sentences written by me, or AI?

Asking questions is key to making sure that you have the tools to not be afraid of AI and advanced technology maneuvering its way into the workplace. Instead of shying away from it, learn the basics to know what the appropriate usage of tools are so you can prevent lawsuits from arising.

Ways that advanced technology is impacting our field:

A string of toxic pollutants that were used during manufacturing processes have now been identified as a link to major health concerns. Carriers are now having to safely monitor claims with these specific chemicals. With new and upcoming technology emerging in the field, there are new ways the water is being tested and chemicals are being identified to help lessen the weight the carriers are facing with the influx of claims.

Positive use cases are climbing with the increased training amongst teams across different organizations and even understanding the benefits AI and advanced technology has for their team. Smaller but effective use cases are implementing AI automations within project management workflows, manufacturing lines, automatic reminders to remind us of renewals, and even more.

Items to be aware of with advanced technology out in the field:

With the release of The Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers (CIAB) Q2 2024 report, cyber concerns will remain a concern to the field even as premiums noted to level.

With the CrowdStrike event impacting the lives of millions, there is bound to be hesitation in the benefits that technology can have when the impact can be so great. This is why education is so important.

Many organizations are now using fingerprints and face scanners to obtain biometric data with the purpose of housing quick and unique identifiers for individuals. With the adoption of this technology becoming more frequent (although 16 years into the implementation of the Information Privacy Act), the number of claims associated with biometric data is on the rise. These lawsuits have caused carriers to now add BIPA exclusions to policies in hopes of avoiding the risk of potential claims. With this powerful technology, it is key to ensure there are safeguards intact to prevent the improper usage of and acquisition of this data.

There are always going to be helpful and harmful uses of technology, and this by no means is to say we need to be the expert of it, but understanding how we can use it for good, protect the data we obtain, and remain aware of the threats it can impose are critical to be an advocate for change and advocates for education in the workplace. AI is something that will continue to grow and impact our lives, so I urge you to get on top of the information we have so we are prepared for whatever the future has in store. ABI