The iPad is dominating our national attention, being described as the precursor to how we will use computers and communicate in the future. Whether you believe this or not, the iPad has inspired a flurry of innovation. Insurers are determined to get onboard.

This year, insurance companies continue to announce newly developed apps, targeting the majority toward auto policy holders. Last month, Travelers added itself to the list. Named “Auto Accident Help” for the iPhone and “Quick Connect” for the BlackBerry, Travelers apps are free for download. The apps can be used to ument the misfortunes of an auto accident, and if the incident is being documented by a Travelers policy holder, the auto claim process can be started immediately through the same app.

Many other insurance companies developed smartphone capabilities last year. Now, the trend is toward integrating insurance agents into the communication channel.

Universal American seems to have taken the lead by creating an app that lets the agent connect to its Lead Management System. In an email to agents, Universal American briefly talks about how the agent can manage and access active leads anywhere, at any time.

Additionally, Progressive proactively helps its agents develop an Internet presence. Progressive’s recent “Agency Reporter” tells agents how to improve Internet sales opportunitiesm including creating and optimizing a website and communicating via Twitter. Progressive writes about a discounted website development and hosting fee available to agents through its partnership with Web.com.

In a recent Mintel Comperemedia survey of agents, almost 25% responded that getting leads “is the biggest challenge [they] face as an insurance agent.” With this being the main struggle for agents, it seems that Universal American and Progressive have developed a couple of killer apps. The more insurance companies can help their agents find and nuture leads, the better they’ll do.