Credit Scoring Project Advances FICOBank’s MF Business

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As initiated in 2006, FICOBank, in partnership with the Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA) finally started what is touted as the “paperless” loan application through the development of the software called the Credit Scoring System (CSS). It is especially designed by IPA for FICOBank to facilitate loan processing. With its use, the overall efficiency in approving or denying a loan application is made faster and more convenient to both the client and the Account Officer (AO). Through CSS, the essential information is compiled in the software and the final analysis whether to approve or deny the client’s application is determined instantly.

Prior to the development of the software, the IPA research team gathered and analyzed the microfinance clients’ information from FICOBank’s MIS data. Subsequently, the credit scoring model was developed by running a regression analysis. The credit scoring model determines the credit worthiness of clients based on their corresponding historical data.

The onset of using the software, however, stirred questions among the Bank’s AOs. In an orientation held last July, this year, at the Corporate Office, concerns were raised on their role in loan accounts generation, as inherent to the adoption of the Credit Scoring System of the Bank.

“The usage of the software does not eliminate the role of the Account Officers since they are the actual people who would use it. Only, their workload will be lessened, and it is hoped that it will let them increase their productivity,” Ms. Eula Ganir, IPA’s Project Associate said. She added that the software will simply accelerate the loan application process. “If you used to give forms to be accomplished by the clients, now you won’t be doing the same since forms such as the application form, CIBI and cashflow analysis are already programmed in ‘netbooks’ to give a decision whether a client’s application will be approved or denied,” Ms. Ganir added.

The pilot test of the project is set at FICOBank Head Office. The rollout of the project will be done simultaneously in all FICOBank branches and field offices afterwards. The pilot test will last for three to six months. Ms. Rean Del Moro, IPA’s Project Associate in the Philippines said, that during the pilot-test period, the team will assess the efficiency of the software being developed. “The six-month period will let us know the weaknesses of the project that will be encountered along the way. Also, the pilot test will give us a big picture on how the CSS works in the field, thus giving us room for re-evaluating the project. Any component of the project design that will turn out erroneous and unsuitable will either be modified or eliminated,” Ms. Del Moro related.

The FICOBank management believes that the implementation of the Credit Scoring System is a great leap for advancement in its goal to expand the microfinance program. It provides convenience for both the clients and Account Officers since bulky forms are eliminated in the process. Likewise, the initial decision whether the client’s loan application is approved or denied is determined instantly, thereby saving time and even cutting costs down.


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