Independent agency professionals share their expectations for the year ahead
Agency professionals are keeping an eye on these trends and taking steps to stay ahead.
Not all AI uses are equal. Agency professionals want AI that’s built into the places they already work, accurate, secure, and easy to use. They also believe they'll get value from use cases that are specific to insurance.
For most agencies, the value lies in leveraging AI features and integrations in current systems. High-performing agencies are working with their tech partners to get the most out of these AI-based capabilities. See what technology agencies are focusing on
Agents want AI to enhance their expertise, not replace it. In 2026, agency professionals are looking to spend more time on client-facing functions and to reduce administrative tasks such as data management and reporting; efficiency; and rating, quoting, or underwriting.
That lines up with what clients want, too. Our recent client survey found that 85% want to know when their agent is using AI.
Move past the pilot stage: Pioneering AI uses will provide a competitive advantage.
Choose flexible technology: Working with a tech partner that offers open platform integration allows your agency to fit tested and trusted AI into your workflow.
Develop a human-AI system: Policyholders and agents alike say the human touch is essential in insurance.
Technology outlook
As pricing pressure eases, client satisfaction and retention become even more important.
Agencies see the biggest payoffs in client communication to drive satisfaction and retention—and the technologies that support it.
Both responses go together. When technology makes teams more efficient, staff can spend more time on effective communication and client satisfaction.
You aren't alone
More than half (55%) feel prepared or very prepared to keep up with technology and market changes this year.
Preparedness is related to agency size: At the largest agencies, 26% feel “somewhat prepared,” and 0% say they are not prepared at all. At the smallest, 49% say they are “somewhat prepared,” and 6% say they are not prepared.
If you want to improve your readiness, working with a trusted tech partner to develop an efficient tech stack can bring flexibility to stay on top of any changes that come.
Leadership responses
Agency owners and principals say they’re more confident than non-owner respondents about widespread AI adoption in 2026…
But feel less prepared to keep up with tech and market changes this year.
A trusted tech partner can empower your agency with the client communications technology, integrations that allow you to add AI and automation solutions to your tech stack, and get greater insights from your data to stay competitive in 2026.
Talk with a Vertafore representative to find the right solutions for your agency.
