While companies in the insurance sector are working with customer-facing apps, few realise the internal value an app can bring, according to a technology expert.

Cassandra Barker, GM of digital mapping specialist MapData Services, says an app that speeds up the claims process for New Zealand-based loss adjuster Godfreys is now available to staff in Australia.

It allows Godfreys’ on-site adjusters to take location, time and date-stamped photos and videos of property damage, add commentary and upload the data to the group’s central claims system.

Ms Barker says the ability to integrate with customer relationship management software “means personnel across the organisation can see how a claim is progressing at any time”.

It’s an example of how apps can be customised to streamline workflows beyond claims assessment, in areas such as customer service centres, she says.

“Businesses can leverage greater returns from their existing systems while at the same time lifting business efficiency and increasing customer satisfaction.”

Godfreys Operations Manager Lindsay Davidson says the app integrates with the company’s proprietary systems to deliver information direct to personnel at the head office “within minutes”.

“Behind an easy-to-use front end, the app interrogates our system in real time to ensure photos and videos are saved against the right claim,” he said.   

The information is then available to other personnel across the business.