"Risk managers are finding that the insurance market is a bit more flexible than it has been in recent years, and coupled with strong risk management programs, some firms may even be able to reap small savings during renewal season." Source: Treasury & Risk Management (04/04) Vol. 14, No. 4, P. 30; Banham, Russ

"Companies are always concerned about how insurance companies perceive their business operations, and many times they are plagued by cookie-cutter policies because of the industries to which they belong. However, risk managers are responsible for shedding light on the company's operations and highlighting the benefits, successes, and changes to the company's risk management strategy that have reduced risks or exposures. Risk managers should educate their underwriters and brokers about the exact nature of the company's business, and what special procedures, policies, and strategies the company has in place to eliminate or reduce risks and exposures." Source: Standing Out From the Crowd Risk Management Online (01/04) Vol. 51, No. 1,; O'Rourke, Morgan

"Although competitive pricing seems to have reemerged during this third renewal cycle of the hard market, experts contend that this trend is not a sign that the market is softening. Instead, they argue, the competitive pricing of today's market is a sign that the marketplace is becoming healthy again, and that underwriters are no longer imposing across-the-board increases. The competitive market means that accounts that have performed well will find the best pricing, while the appetite for poor performers will decline. Accounts that have good performance records and those that proactively engage in risk management and loss control can now take advantage of better pricing. The current competitive market is also moving carriers to become more specialized and to design specialized risk management and loss control programs to meet clients' needs. Agencies and carriers that are actively serving their accounts will thrive in the current market, and increased competition will force clients to become more educated and aware of their coverage." Source: Rough Notes (03/04) Vol. 147, No. 3, P. 120; Primiano, Scott M.