Promoting, protecting, and researching the optimal use of incentives, rewards, and related promotions in business.
Current Research/White Papers/Legislative Updates
2015-16 Incentive Marketplace Estimate Research Reports 17% Growth Since 2013
Conducted in partnership with market research firm Intellective Group of St. Louis, the study measures the expenditures of businesses for non-cash rewards for employees, customers and partners. The results update studies from previous years and provide details about expenditures spent on gift cards, rewards points, travel, and merchandise by corporate America. New this year, the study also focuses on the number of program owners using award points.
The study of a cross-section of US businesses confirms that award points, gift cards, incentive travel, and merchandise are commonly-used tools for firms seeking to reward and recognize their employees, sales teams, channel partners, and customers. Key findings from the study include:
• 84% of U.S. businesses use non-cash rewards to recognize and reward key audiences in the form of award points, gift cards, incentive travel, and merchandise – up from 74% in 2013
• In 2015, U.S. businesses spent $90 billion on these types of non-cash rewards, a 17% increase from $77 billion in 2013
To see the full research report click here
Federation Response to OSHA Safety and Health Program Management Guidelines
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”) has issued a revised draft of OSHA Safety and Health Program Management Guidelines. OSHA invited public comment to their proposed revisions and the Incentive Federation and some Federation members have written to OSHA to express opposition to OSHA’s criticism of safety incentive programs. The Draft Guidelines state in a note that, “Incentive programs for workers or managers that tie performance evaluations, compensation, or rewards to low injury and illness rates can discourage injury and illness reporting. Point systems that penalize workers for reporting injuries, illnesses, or other safety or health concerns have the same effect, as can mandatory drug testing after reporting injuries. Effective safety and health programs recognize positive safety and health activities, such as reporting hazardous conditions or suggesting safer work procedures.” To see the Incentive Federation’s response click here
2016 1st Quarter Legislative Update
The Incentive Federation’s 2016 Quarterly Legislative Update is now available for your review. Learn the latest developments and implications about a long running legal battle regarding a Colorado law that addresses sales tax to be paid and collected by out-of-sate retailers. Click here
2015 Incentive Federation Program Design and Support Study Released
IFI engaged Intellective Group of St. Louis to conduct its 2015 Program and Design Study. Using a national sample of business stakeholders with at least $1M in revenue, the study aimed to determine the drivers of programs, award types, supplier use and program metrics. The full study may be reviewed here. Additional inquiries may be sent to IFI’s Managing Director, Steve Slagle.
2015 Incentive Federation Program Design and Support Study Waterfall Release #1 – Program Goals and Objectives
IFI has released the first of a series of white papers on its 2015 Incentive Federation Program Design and Support Study. In this white paper, the Federation focuses on an in-depth analysis of program goals and objectives companies strive to achieve when designing an incentive program. Review the Program Goals and Objectives white paper here.
2015 Incentive Federation Program Design and Support Study Waterfall Release #2 – Communication, Technology and Tools
IFI has released the second of a series of white papers on its 2015 Incentive Federation Program Design and Support Study. In this white paper, the Federation focuses on an in-depth analysis of how companies utilize communication, technology, tools and reporting within their incentive programs. Review the Communications, Technology, Tools & Reporting white paper here.
2015 Incentive Federation Program Design and Support Study Waterfall Release #3 – Award Program Spending
IFI has released the third in a series of white papers on its 2015 Incentive Federation Program Design and Support Study. In the latest release, IFI puts the spotlight on program spending. Click here to learn more.
2015 Incentive Federation Program Design and Support Study Waterfall Release #4 – Engaging Outside Program Support
IFI has released the fourth in a series of of white papers on its 2015 Incentive Federation Program Design and Support Study. In the latest release, IFI puts the spotlight on engaging outside program support. Click here to learn more.
