A Claims--IT pocket dictionary: Even though claims and IT use the same words, they aren't always speaking the same language. Translation can spell the difference between project success and failure.(Claims technology: special supplement)

Claims, July, 2004 by Quinley, Kevin M.

George Bernard Shaw once described the United States and the United Kingdom as "two great peoples divided by a common language." To a certain degree, we similarly could describe communications gaps often present between information technology folks and claims professionals.

IT people speak of bits and bytes. Claims people talk of reserves and incurred, IBNR and RTW. IT folks work with networks. To adjusters, "network" is a verb, something they do at monthly claims association meetings.

Given differences in nomenclature, training, and background, how can IT professionals and claims people bridge the communications gap?

Adjusters and information technology professionals can collaborate better if riley share a mutual appreciation and under...