About PLANS​

PLANS (Property Liability Association for New Systems) is a long-standing peer organization dedicated to helping property and casualty insurance companies exchange information, ideas, and technology practices that benefit the industry. Founded in 1970, the organization began as the PALIS User Group, bringing together insurance companies using IBM's (Property and Liability Insurance System) platform. What started as a technical forum for discussing common system challenges quickly evolved into a broader association focused on collaboration, knowledge sharing, and advancing the use of technology within the insurance industry.

Over the years, PLANS expanded its mission beyond a single platform, becoming a trusted network where insurance technology leaders can openly discuss strategic, operational, and emerging technology topics. From its inception, the organization was designed to be highly participative, fostering direct interaction and peer-to-peer sharing among member companies. 

Today, PLANS includes nearly 40 member companies from across the United States, representing approximately over $50 billion in combined written premium and including many of Ward's Top 50 Property & Casualty insurers. The organization fulfills its mission through semiannual conferences held throughout the country, providing member companies with opportunities to share experiences, present technology initiatives, discuss industry challenges, and build professional relationships with peers. A hallmark of PLANS conferences is their unique open forum format, which encourages candid discussion and peer-to-peer problem solving. Attendees can ask fellow insurance technology and IT leaders practical questions regarding technology strategy, cybersecurity, infrastructure, application development, vendor management, staffing, and IT leadership challenges.

These conversations are governed by the PLANS bylaws and antitrust guidelines, creating a trusted environment focused on education, collaboration, and professional networking. Proprietary business information, competitive data, and other sensitive company information are not shared among members, allowing participants to exchange experiences and best practices while respecting the confidentiality of each organization. This collaborative approach continues the founding vision of creating a participative environment where members learn from one another and collectively address the evolving needs of the insurance industry.