People sometimes ask me why FIS invests so much in training programs. This issue of Communicator highlights some of the educational resources we have available to our customers, as well as the extensive training we provide to our staff.

FIS invests in training because of the "Three R's," which I like to define as:

Reverence for Education - My diverse background includes being a math teacher for a number of years. I know the value of education, not only in terms of enhancing one's ability to earn a dollar, but I also know that it benefits our industry as a whole. Education sharpens our skills, enables technical innovation, and supports the continued growth of our industry.

Recognition that the Industry is Changing - FIS has thousands of items in its product line, and our employees evaluate new products on a daily basis. As a result, our staff is uniquely equipped to spot changes and trends in our industry. Our training programs provide a way for us to share this knowledge with our customers. In other words, we not only have the latest and greatest items in our product line, we are able to explain to our customers how to use these products effectively. Also, extrapolating from what we already know, we can discern trends and suggest to customers what new products and technology to expect down the road.

Retention of Customers - The first two "R's" make FIS sound like an altruistic company, right? Well, the third "R" represents a very practical reason for FIS to invest heavily in education.
Studies show that it is more effective to retain existing customers than it is to attract new ones. A company keeps its customers by providing as much value as possible, both in terms of price and services, which in our case includes educational programs.

These studies are reinforced by my own teaching experience. I know that students have a profound loyalty to those teachers and institutions that helped them as they were beginning their careers.

Needless to say, I hope that you will avail yourself of some (or all!) of the educational opportunities that are featured in this issue of Communicator.