As a global data, analytics, and technology company, Equifax recognizes the importance of exploration and innovation. Equifax plays an important role in the lives of consumers, and its focus on innovation and driving greater financial inclusion is a part of a commitment to creating a positive impact on people’s personal and financial well-being in each of the 24 countries it serves.
“Our Purpose – to help people live their financial best – is at the heart of everything we do,” said Harald Schneider, Chief Data and Analytics Officer at Equifax. “Our investments in AI and advanced data science enhance the products and services we develop to drive more inclusive lending practices and help individuals and businesses take the next step in their financial futures.”
Whether it’s a small restaurant seeking capital to expand, or a recent college graduate applying for their first credit card, access to affordable financial services products can help drive greater personal financial health and set a path for future generations. Equifax leverages AI to help solve complex problems and introduce new methods of modeling that can ultimately help create greater financial opportunity for people.
Equifax has driven AI innovation for nearly a decade—beginning with the introduction of the first Machine Learning (ML) credit scoring system with the ability to generate logical and actionable reason codes for the consumer. The custom-built Equifax Cloud™ and advanced data fabric enable the company to maximize AI at Equifax. Differentiated data and patented AI techniques are infused into solutions that give customers the deeper insights they need to move people forward, faster.
As of April 1, 2024, Equifax has more than 530 issued or pending patents across the globe, which includes approximately 90 approved patents supporting the company’s approach to AI. Equifax believes there is no better way for a company to drive innovation and help build community than to connect with the next generation of forward-thinkers. Through its academic partnership program, Equifax hosts collaborative industry research, student-led research, community data labs, and course-specific capstone projects.
The collaborative research and community data labs have resulted in over 30 research projects, five patents, and invaluable experience for tomorrow’s data and analytic leaders.
“Working directly with university professors and their students helps us bring a fresh perspective to business challenges,” said Gail Wetzel, Vice President of Data & Analytics at Equifax. “The teams are exposed to unique data and leading-edge technology that can provide valuable experience as they graduate and enter the workforce.”
Recently completed student-led projects were hosted at local Georgia universities—Kennesaw State University, Georgia State University at the J. Mack Robinson College of Business, and the Georgia Institute of Technology at the Denning Technology & Management Program.
