Expert Commentary

Insurance … The Other Side of the Chinese Wall

Gary Bausom | July 1, 2006

Gary Bausom explains the growing divergence between insurer and insured expectations after a loss, and how this wall can be overcome.

Employment Practices

Supreme Court Loosens Standard in Retaliation Lawsuits

Paul Siegel | July 1, 2006

Paul Siegel discusses a recent Supreme Court case that has been hailed as a victory by employees' rights groups nationwide.

Construction Safety

Measuring Success—Integrated Risk Management

Peter Furst | June 3, 2006

Peter Furst outlines some tools and techniques to assess the effectiveness of the safety management process.

Mediation

Professional Mediator: A Distinction That Makes a Difference

Jeff Kichaven | June 1, 2006

While many mediators are former judges, proper mediation goes beyond two-dimensional judging. Jeff Kichaven explains.

Continuous Performance Improvement

Deming's Point #10 as Applied to the Insurance Industry

John Pryor | June 1, 2006

John Pryor explains Dr. Edwards Deming's Point #10: Eliminate slogans, exhortations, and targets for the workforce.

Courts and Coverage

Hurricanes Katrina and Rita: Effect on Claims Handling Procedures

Brent Cooper | June 1, 2006

Insurers faced unique obstacles in investigating and settling claims in 2005. Dana Harbin and Brent Cooper explain.

Construction Defect Coverage

Complex Construction Defect Claims: Who Pays First?—Part 1

Patrick Wielinski | June 1, 2006

In a two-part series, Pat Wielinski discusses a recent and major concern of the construction industry—the risk of nonperformance or default.

Current Trends and Issues

Dissecting Problems in Association Health Insurance Policies

Tim Ryles | June 1, 2006

Dr. Tim Ryles cautions against risky association plans and advises on how not to become a victim.

Courts and Coverage

Hurricanes Katrina and Rita: Effect on Rating and Underwriting

Brent Cooper | May 13, 2006

Homeowners insurance rate increases may stabilize the market in affected states. Dana Harbin and Brent Cooper explain.

Surety

Surety Underwriting, Sales, and Service—A Delicate Balance

Rolf Neuschaefer | May 1, 2006

Rolf Neuschaefer explains the need for a better understanding of the respective responsibilities of sureties and agents.