Points vs. Cash

Incentive and recognition programs have evolved over the years – from the early days of S&H Green Stamps to today where the essential choices still remain a matter of a points-based system and cash rewards.

For the past decade cash programs have expanded their choices to feel less like cash with the advent of gift cards. Today, most if not all national food and retail chains have gift cards and major credit company offer prepaid cards focused on certain industries such as travel and leisure.

Points-based systems are a newer concept and most recently have just begun to tap into the real potential for powerful and effective incentive programs. There are some fundamental differences between points and cash and, for the most part, points-based systems have proven to be more effective. Here are a few points to consider.