Comments Sought on CAS Research Initiatives

CAS research took a number of noteworthy steps in new directions in 2003. In addition to continuing to identify and manage research projects, the CAS implemented new initiatives designed to make the results of research more accessible to the CAS membership.

CAS staff worked with the CAS Research and Development Committees to develop a research taxonomy, or categorization scheme, for casualty actuarial science literature. The taxonomy should dramatically improve the ability to identify research articles by standardizing the terminology. Articles currently contained in the online database of actuarial abstracts will be categorized according to the taxonomy.

In addition, a template has been developed for use by authors writing research papers. Call paper authors will be required to adhere to a style guide in order to have their papers published in the Forum. The consistent style will make it easier for CAS members to browse through the Forum. CAS working parties and future call paper authors (beginning with 2005 call paper programs) will be required to use the research paper template when submitting their papers.

CAS members are invited to review the taxonomy and paper template and provide comments until March 19, 2004. A cash prize of $100 will be awarded via random draw from among all those members submitting comments.