Beginning in 2005, Ping An has worked to systematically streamline its business operations, using Software AG's webMethods to integrate key enterprise systems, including its customer information file, which synchronises client profile information between different applications across its various subsidiaries.

"Our executive board, including our chairman and CEO, view IT as a strategic component of the whole business," said Ma. "We are very much a digital business, utilising the Internet to expand rapidly and keep down overheads," Ma said.

"In addition, our IT platform is ready to support any merger and acquisition opportunities that our expansion programme demands."

Ping An's initial selection of webMethods was based upon its ability to deliver a reliable business integration and process management platform within a comprehensive service-oriented architecture. This allowed the company to meet a variety of system integration and process automation requirements.

The success of Ping An's business-driven IT infrastructure was recognised at IDC's Enterprise Innovation Awards 2008 presented at IDC's Asia Pacific CIO Summit.