The scoring models for screening and monitoring provided by Experian make use of customer information including application data, behavioural data and external credit records. These models are developed specifically for managing credit cards and loans. As well as adopting new scoring models, the new credit risk system incorporates rules developed by Aplus based on its experience in this field.

According to Mr. Shimazaki Masayuki, Chief Risk Officer of Aplus: “This is an extremely flexible, strategic credit control system as a result of the integration of our deep knowledge of the screening process and advanced statistical and mathematical technologies.

“In general, for our credit control operations, we would monitor and verify accuracy of a credit strategy based on an existing credit standard or scorecard, and refine it if necessary.  However, deployment of a new credit strategy can result in unexpected risks even after thorough verification.  This new credit system allows us to compare the accuracy of both new and current strategies by parallel running; we can then change the whole strategy if the new one demonstrates outstanding capability.  As such, we can now operate with the best credit strategy at all times.”   

Mr. Shimazaki added: “In the last couple of years, the credit sales industry has gone through major changes, including the revision of Money-lending Control Law and Installment Sales Law, changes in the economic environment, and diversifying needs of customers and merchants, as well as more sophisticated requirements from society to credit sales companies etc.  While credit strategies should be able to respond flexibly to these changes, system development inevitably takes time. The biggest benefit of the new system is the genuine capability for our credit strategy planning department to update strategies quickly.  Being able to incorporate these basic functions in our system at this stage is an extremely important step for us."

Mr. Kent Ryu, General Manager of Experian Japan K.K., said: “Aplus is a very important client for Experian and we are very pleased to be able to contribute to its success through its use of Strategy Management.  As a trusted partner, we are dedicated to further enhancing our relationship and are focused on strengthening our support services for Aplus.”