Author: Judy Hammond

How Fudge Factors Distort Vendor Measurement 

In the world of data and metrics, the integrity of measurement methods can be easily compromised by various fudge factors, especially when dealing with third-party vendors. These subtle manipulations or adjustments, whether intentional or inadvertent, can significantly skew the results and paint an inaccurate picture of vendor performance. For instance, selecting specific data ranges that favor desired outcomes, omitting outliers that don’t fit the narrative, or tweaking algorithms to produce […]

Navigating Debt Collection and Credit Reporting Disputes – A Look at Hammoud v. J.J. Marshall & Associates

This case highlights the complexities of legal disputes involving debt collection and credit reporting and underscores the importance of providing detailed evidence and understanding specific legal standards when pursuing such claims.  A consumer visited her primary physician, who recommended a colonoscopy and introduced her to Dr. Siddiqui, a gastroenterologist. Before meeting Dr. Siddiqui, the consumer signed a form allowing Dr. Siddiqui’s office to bill her for services. Dr. Siddiqui claimed […]

Vendor Termination Basics – Prepare Now 

The due diligence required to hire a collection agency can be exhaustive.  Site visits, reference checks, policy and procedure reviews, cyber reviews, testing and more – and that’s not even counting the contracting phase. The last thing anyone wants to think about is termination preparations!  But, the time to think about termination is at due diligence and contracting.  Most creditors include a termination clause in their contracts with agencies.  Most […]

Networking Can Be Very Scary: Embrace the Fear, Reap the Rewards

I understand the value of networking – but I’m more of a sit in the back of the room and take notes without looking up kinda person.  It’s so much easier to  just always be on my phone during the break and before and after a training class so I don’t have to make eye contact with any other students.  I have been known to miss an entire networking reception […]

two books beside two chalks

The ABC’s of Collection Agency Management

Don’t ever let anyone tell you that agency management, or communicating with your agencies, is as simple as “ABC.”  Managing your agencies for maximum return takes knowledge, dedication, perseverance, patience and consistent effort. Agencies are not always managed to their full potential.  Myths like:  “They work on commission, so they have every incentive to collect the debt,” or, “They are the experts; I can’t tell them what to do,” or, […]

Transparency Matters: The Value of Open Communication in Oversight

Transparency is not just a buzzword: In the world of collection agency oversight, transparency is not just a buzzword – it’s a fundamental principle that underpins trust, accountability, and effective collaboration. Transparent communication is the cornerstone of successful relationships between businesses and collection agencies, fostering mutual understanding, alignment of goals, and proactive problem-solving. Let’s delve deeper into why transparent communication is crucial in the realm of collection agency oversight and […]