Episode 3: Unlocking the Power of Risk Data with Archipelago Analytics

Data is the foundation

Having spent more than 35 years at the forefront of insurance analytics, Hemant believes the industry needs to rethink how it views data. Rather than seeing it as simply an input into a model, organisations should recognise it as the foundation of risk management itself.

While models remain critical, better decisions ultimately depend on better information. Data shapes everything from underwriting and portfolio management to operational efficiency and capital allocation.

Building trust through better data

A key theme of the discussion is trust.

When data is incomplete, inconsistent or unreliable, it creates friction across the insurance value chain as information is repeatedly reviewed, validated and reworked. According to Hemant, improving data quality can unlock greater efficiency, faster decision-making and what he describes as increased "data liquidity" across the market.

Creating trusted data at the source, rather than correcting it downstream, has the potential to benefit insureds, brokers and insurers alike.

AI is only as good as the data behind it

Artificial intelligence is creating new opportunities to structure, process and analyse information at scale. However, Trent and Hemant agree that AI is not a substitute for high-quality data.

While AI can help automate workflows and improve efficiency, the accuracy of its outputs will always depend on the quality of the underlying information. Trusted data remains the foundation upon which successful AI strategies are built.

A pivotal moment for the market

The conversation concludes with an optimistic view of the future. As organisations invest in digital transformation and improve the quality of their data, the insurance market has an opportunity to reduce friction, improve collaboration and respond more effectively to increasingly complex risks.

The message from Episode 3 is clear: trusted data is no longer a supporting function. It is becoming a strategic advantage.

About the guests

Trent Somerville
Technical Director, Price Forbes
He leads the firm's digital strategy and platform development, driving innovation in data integration, automation and more efficient risk placement across the business.

Hemant Shah
Founder, CEO and Executive Chair, Archipelago Analytics
Previously, he co-founded Risk Management Solutions (RMS) while studying at Stanford University and built it into the market-leading risk modelling firm serving the global insurance industry. Hemant is passionate about risk and resiliency and serves as Vice Chairman of the Board and Senior Advisor for FortressFire.

Listen to the episode

Episode 3 is now available. Join Trent Somerville and Hemant Shah as they explore how trusted data, AI and digital innovation are transforming risk management, improving market efficiency and reshaping the future of insurance.