Perhaps as many as half the people there were all about points programs - from the card issuers and payment solutions to the brands that participate in redemption programs. These programs, once approved (which can take time), are a fast way to roll out a consumer benefit without involving many people inside the organization. Bypassing employees on the front lines ? whether in the bank, the store or the call center, there are lots and lots of them ? makes implementation easier.
Plenty of speakers have run the numbers and vouched for the ROI....