This research paper first presents the technical foundations and key principles of data analytics techniques, then outlines use cases that have been developed by life insurers, reinsurers and insurtechs. All of these cases have proven their ability to generate business value in a broad scope of business applications. We aim to further thinking on how life insurers could leverage data analytics to support their business ambitions. We also present feedback from life insurance industry data leaders, sharing their experience and convictions on artificial intelligence and data analytics.