Insights from our latest Technology Special Interest Group
What’s the real blocker to legacy transformation: outdated code or outdated thinking? Can AI really help unpick years of undocumented complexity – and if so, how far can we trust it?
These were just some of the questions explored in our latest member-only Special Interest Group (SIG) meeting, where peers from insurers and brokers came together to share strategies, challenge assumptions and collectively shape the future of operations and architecture.
This session built on discussions from TINtech London Market and focused on the challenges and opportunities around legacy transformation – particularly in the context of emerging technologies such as AI.
Here are just a few insights that emerged:
AI isn’t a magic bullet – yet
While generative AI is being tested to document code and identify unused functionality, members agreed that it isn’t yet robust enough to trace complex logic or provide the auditability needed in a regulated environment. Still, it’s opening up promising avenues, particularly in understanding legacy systems where documentation is missing and key knowledge has walked out the door.
Incremental change wins over big bang reform
Successful transformation is more often achieved through simplification and step-by-step modernisation, rather than wholesale replacement. API readiness, a clear data strategy and well-governed vendor relationships were flagged as critical to progress – especially in markets that continue to wrestle with long-standing systems.
SaaS is helpful – but never fully ‘off the shelf’
Most agreed that while SaaS platforms can accelerate modernisation, they rarely deliver value without significant configuration. There was also widespread frustration with vendor complacency, weak support models and unclear roadmaps, sparking calls for greater market pressure and more transparent partnerships.
Mindset and ownership are as vital as architecture
Perhaps most striking was the agreement that technology change will only deliver impact when it’s underpinned by cultural change. Cross-functional collaboration, especially involving underwriters as product owners, is no longer optional. Tech and business teams must share accountability if transformation is to succeed.
The discussion also touched on how legacy vs future-state thinking is evolving with some calling for a shift to data-centric, modular ecosystems rather than recreating future legacy in the form of another large system.
So, where next?
How do we balance tactical modernisation with long-term vision? And what’s the right mix of AI, SaaS and human-led design to get there?
These are exactly the types of questions we’ll be exploring further in future SIG meetings. If you're ready to move beyond theory and join open, honest conversations with peers who are facing the same challenges – we’d love to welcome you.
For more information about membership, contact Tom@TIN.events
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