Three Central Iowa-based companies have been named to the InformationWeek 500 list for 2010. FBL Financial Group Inc., Iowa Health System and Principal Financial Group Inc. each made the list, which is now in its 23rd year.

To be recognized, a company must demonstrate a “pattern of technological, procedural and organizational innovation.” Only organizations with $250 million or more in annual revenues, or subsidiaries of parent companies that large, are invited to participate.

FBL made its first appearance on the list in recognition of automating its life insurance application and underwriting processes. The technology allows less complex cases to be underwritten through an automated rules engine, using five medical questions and a swift evaluation of additional medical evidence and other records. It allows underwriting decisions to be delivered in less than 15 minutes from the time of submission.

“FBL’s inclusion in this year’s InformationWeek 500 demonstrates our commitment to developing innovative ways to make it easier for customers to do business with us and our dedication to improving the overall customer experience,” said Rich Kypta, executive vice president of Farm Bureau Life Insurance Co.

Iowa Health System also made its debut on the list this year, for its recent implementation of a new picture archiving and communication system, which digitally stores, retrieves and presents medical images such as X-rays. “Innovative use of information technology is a key component to providing better care,” said Iowa Health System President and CEO Bill Leaver.

For Principal, it was the 13th consecutive year to be named to the list. Developing mobile applications for financial professionals, making strategic improvements in information security and reducing expenses by $10 million were among the accomplishments that placed Principal on this year’s list, said Gary Scholten, senior vice president and chief information officer.

Other companies with significant Iowa operations that made the list include Aviva plc, Deere & Co., Emerson Process Management, Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Co., Marsh Inc., Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co. and Wells Fargo & Co.

To view the complete list, visit www.informationweek.com.