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CCC Introduces Internet-Based Pathways(R) Image Library

13 July 1999

CCC Introduces Internet-Based Pathways(R) Image Library

              Cost Effective, Real-Time Claim Review on the Web

    CHICAGO, July 13 -- Building on a decade of imaging
technology leadership, CCC Information Services Inc. today
introduced its new Internet-based service for fast, simple, reliable storage
and retrieval of image workfiles needed for claims review.
    CCC's new service, called Pathways(R) Image Library, takes the place of
paper files or electronic files at users' facilities.  Instead, users simply
log onto the Internet, enter their password and the relevant claim number, and
can instantly view all images, estimates, administration and vehicle data
needed to complete the claims review process.
    Pathways Image Library, in conjunction with CCC's Pathways Digital Imaging
software, reduces traditional photography and related costs, and it eliminates
the need to track down paper files and send image files between offices.
Users can view image files from any location, including from the field.  In
addition, users at multiple locations can view the same image file
simultaneously, facilitating negotiation, and speeding claim settlement.
Short-term, web-based storage and/or long-term backup storage is available.
    Digital imaging applications are in damage appraisal, audit-reinspection,
collision repair, appraiser guidance, catastrophe, underwriting and
litigation.
    Pathways Image Library is the newest component in CCC's Pathways Digital
Imaging Solution suite of products that electronically capture, transmit, and
store images of vehicle damage and claim-related documents.  Other Pathways
solutions include Collision Estimating, Quality Advisor, Enterprise Solution
and Professional Advantage collision repair management systems.
    "Pathways Image Library is the latest in a series of CCC imaging
innovations to benefit the claims industry," said Githesh Ramamurthy,
president of CCC.  "For example, in 1992, our EZView(TM) application permitted
users to integrate images with our EZEst(R) estimating system using a video
camera.  In 1996, CCC's EZFocus(TM) added digital cameras as capture devices.
    "Today, with CCC's Pathways, the dominant technology platform in the
automotive claims industry, we're continuing that tradition of innovation
by developing leading-edge technologies that leverage Pathways'
functionalities -- including Internet connectivity," Ramamurthy continued.
"Internet-enabled information transfer is becoming the new standard in
business today.  We're pleased to contribute to our industry's ability to stay
at the forefront of information delivery."
    The first user of the new Pathways Image Library is 20th Century Insurance
(Woodland Hills, Calif.), a personal auto insurance company that serves
consumers in Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.  "As we began
to move into digital imaging, we quickly realized we'd either need an in-house
server or an Internet service to handle them," said John Bierer, Property
Claim Manager for Material Damage.  "Because we've been a CCC customer since
the late 1980s -- we were one of the first EZEst users -- we turned to them
for help.
    "Now, with Pathways Image Library, we've already put close to 130,000
images on the Internet," he continued.  "Our staff adjusters already use it
and our direct repair partners will be using it soon.  It saves time looking
for pictures as well as money for buying and processing film.  It's reliable.
And it allows our adjusters instant access to the photographic documentation
they need to do their job."
    Subscribers to Pathways Digital Imaging exchange image-enhanced claim
files between business partners (e.g., insurance companies) on CCC's EZNet(R)
network service.  Workfiles with attached images are then automatically
deposited into the Pathways Image Library for secure storage.  To retrieve
stored files, users simply log on to the Pathways Image Library and input the
claim number of the file they wish to retrieve.  They can then quickly and
easily view images and thumbnails, and estimate administrative information.
Images are saved as JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group, an image
compression standard) files, so printed images are clear and easy to view.
    CCC Information Services Inc., headquartered in Chicago, Ill., is the
automotive claims industry's leading supplier of advanced software and
communications systems.  Its value-added, technology-based products and
services increase efficiency and facilitate communication among more than
13,500 collision repair facilities, 4,400 dealerships, 350 insurance companies
and a range of business partners.  For more information about CCC Information
Services, contact Peter Duckler at HLB Communications at 312-649-0371.