Insights from the Data Jam Pre-Event Survey
Insights from the Data Jam Pre-Event Survey
As we approach Data Jam 2025, the results of the pre-event survey offer a compelling snapshot of the insurance industry's current priorities, aspirations and challenges regarding data, analytics and AI. The responses reveal a sector eager to harness the transformative potential of AI yet grappling with foundational issues that must be addressed to unlock long-term value.
Developing AI strategies that deliver ROI
One of the most prominent themes is the need for actionable AI strategies that deliver measurable outcomes. Many organisations have invested in data and technology, yet the transition from pilot projects to scalable enterprise deployment remains elusive. Respondents express a strong interest in practical frameworks to operationalise AI across underwriting, claims, operations and customer journeys. The focus is squarely on real use cases that generate business value supported by clarity on ROI, scaling pathways and governance mechanisms that mitigate risk.
Overcoming fundamental data challenges
However, AI success is impossible without robust data foundations. The survey reveals a sector still battling fragmented systems, inconsistent data and undefined standards. Challenges include building taxonomies, establishing data governance functions and defining ownership across complex data pipelines. There is recognition that to maximise the benefits of AI, insurance firms need high-quality, conformed data that flows across the organisation without silos or manual inefficiencies. For some, this means starting from scratch to create modern, scalable data infrastructure capable of supporting advanced analytics and future technologies.
Integration versus transformation
The question of integration versus transformation looms large. While some believe that AI requires radical process redesign, others suggest incremental improvements that embed AI into existing workflows can deliver immediate value. The survey reflects concerns around legacy systems, regulatory environments and workforce comfort levels with new tools. Respondents are seeking clarity on how to introduce AI without overwhelming business users or compromising controls.
Overcoming resistance to change
A significant number of comments highlight the cultural dimension of becoming a data-first enterprise. Resistance from business teams, lack of data literacy and an overreliance on manual processes remain barriers. This suggests that investment in technology must be matched by efforts to shift mindsets, build trust in automated decision-making and embed data-driven behaviours across all levels of the organisation.
There is also keen interest in collaboration and shared standards, particularly in the London Market. Several respondents asked how firms can align around common data models, standards and control frameworks to reduce friction, improve decision-making and accelerate market-wide adoption of AI. The need for both strategic alignment and practical steps to create a cohesive data ecosystem is clear.
Ultimately, the survey highlights an industry at a critical juncture. The building blocks for transformative AI are within reach, but progress requires aligned strategies, strong foundations, cultural shift and shared learning. For those attending Data Jam 2025, the stage is set for vital conversations on translating aspiration into action and unlocking the potential of data and AI for sustainable growth.
If you are attending Data Jam next week, what key questions will you bring to the table?
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