Insurance Agency Location Scoring Algorithm

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current site location models in the insurance industry lack consistency and efficiency in evaluating suitable locations for new offices, failing to account for unique factors such as natural and human-induced perils, leading to suboptimal site selection and increased resource consumption.

Innovation Solution

A location modeling system using a scoring algorithm to rank geographical regions by zip codes, incorporating distance modeling to assess risk from perils like natural disasters and human activities, and displaying results in a user-friendly format to facilitate decision-making.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If current site location models are used in the insurance industry, then location evaluation can be performed, but the results are inconsistent and inefficient, leading to suboptimal site selection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocation evaluation consistencyVSAvoidsite selection efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms qualitative location assessment into quantitative evaluation by introducing a scoring algorithm that assigns numerical values to multiple location factors. This parameter transformation enables consistent and efficient comparison across different geographic regions, resolving the contradiction between evaluation consistency and selection efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The location evaluation model segments the site selection process into distinct components including population density, competition analysis, peril exposure, and infrastructure factors. Each segment is evaluated independently and scored separately, then aggregated into an overall location score, improving both consistency and efficiency of the evaluation process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple geographic regions are evaluated without standardized results, then comprehensive coverage is achieved, but comparison between regions becomes difficult and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegeographic coverageVSAvoidresult analysis time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies equipotentiality by standardizing all geographic regions to a common scoring framework. Each region is evaluated using the same criteria and scoring methodology, creating equivalent evaluation conditions across diverse geographic areas. This enables direct comparison and rapid identification of optimal locations without time-consuming manual analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #12Equipotentiality

3Ease of manufacture

If traditional location models are used, then basic site evaluation is possible, but unique insurance industry factors such as perils are not accounted for

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodel implementation simplicityVSAvoidlocation suitability accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a multi-functional location evaluation model that simultaneously assesses multiple factors including demographic characteristics, competitive landscape, infrastructure quality, and peril exposure. This universal model integrates diverse evaluation criteria into a single comprehensive scoring system, improving location suitability accuracy while maintaining implementation feasibility through standardized procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Measurement precision

If manual location analysis is performed without an overall scoring method, then detailed evaluation is possible, but resource consumption increases and efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveevaluation detailVSAvoidresource consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical analysis with an automated computational scoring system. The algorithm automatically processes location data, calculates scores across multiple factors, and generates ranked results without requiring extensive manual intervention. This substitution maintains detailed evaluation capability while dramatically reducing resource consumption and increasing processing efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS12086888B2Retail deployment model
Publication Date: 2024.09.10 ALLSTATE INSURANCE COMPANY
  • US12086888B2 patent drawing
  • US12086888B2 patent drawing
  • US12086888B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of determining and optimizing the location of a new insurance agency is disclosed to increase market penetration of underrepresented markets. The method comprises the use of a scoring algorithm to rank various geographic regions or related zip codes. The scoring algorithm may be implemented by a location modeling system based on variables selected by a user. In addition, the various ranked geographic regions or related zip codes may be analyzed for proximity to natural or man made perils.