A solution considering partial degree of composite action for insulated sandwich panels with general configuration flexible shear connectors

•An analytical model for sandwich panels with flexible shear connectors is presented.•Shear lag model is derived considering partial DCA of the flexible shear connectors.•The analytical model is verified using testing and FE results.•A parametric study is conducted to study deck stiffness and aspect ratio.•The results from this study can be used for the design of insulated sandwich panels.