The integration of powerful FICO analytics into a leading origination platform is intended to streamline the small business lending process while bringing unparalleled consistency to small business loan decisions.

Cypress Software Systems is a leading provider of loan origination and processing software for banks, credit unions, CUSO's and leasing companies. Its BizMark platform is designed to automate most small business loan decisions, freeing underwriters to focus on "gray area" cases and exceptions. FICO's LiquidCredit service is a Web-based decisioning solution developed to enable institutions to utilize FICO's small business scoring models (SBSS). The combination of BizMark and LiquidCredit gives institutions a single platform for all small business lending or leasing decision criteria while improving risk management. It brings a higher level of consistency in processing applications and provides a model that can be easily validated for regulatory compliance.

"Besides being a vital economic engine, small businesses can be highly profitable to the lenders who serve them," said Steven Croft, senior vice-president at Cypress Software Systems. "Our partnership with FICO will enable our mutual clients to make more profitable, higher-quality small business loans and improve customer satisfaction in this important segment."

"Today more than ever, profitability is a competitive advantage for financial institutions," said Robin Wadsworth, vice president at FICO. "With FICO scoring models now available directly through the BizMark platform, lenders can process more applications in less time, without higher labor costs, while reducing their risks and improving their decisions - all of which yields improved profitability."