Next Generation Insurance: Leading from the front.

With Apple's popular iPhone/ iPod Touch / iPad devices expected to be in the hands of nearly 1% of the global human population sometime in 2011-12, you have to wonder if this is more of a gaming driven user adoption curve or would there be more practical uses emerging for the latest iteration of the device that has been labeled as "magical & revolutionary" by its makers.

One thing is clear- the iPad is the same size as a regular business folio used by many executives and for those too busy to be accessing laptops while on the go, it is going to be an innovative addition to have a notepad sized connected device to carry around all day. A basic behavioral change that will be enabled is for users (both as consumers & business professionals) to be able to access more frequently various news & publications pertaining to their interests. A potential extension which would arise is for a more connected user to engage in higher levels of research into their own product or service needs- while it would not necessarily tilt consumers away from an innate tendency to rely on personal touch (agent/ advisor), it is definitely going to enhance their awareness and also enhance their connection with other similar user profiles.

For financial services firms, the iPad is going to liberate their user segments from the small form factor of the Blackberry & other smartphones for regular transaction capabilities such as account browsing, trades etc. It is also imperative for carriers to enhance their social media vehicles and ensure a platform for consumers to interact with each other and also with potential prospects who would be researching financial services offerings (example- retirement services) prior to any purchase even if such purchase is ultimately done through a personal selling channel.