Book excerpt: · Credit scoring is a vital and sometimes misunderstood tool in financial services · Evaluates the different systems available Bankers and lenders depend on credit scoring to determine the best credit risks--and ensure maximum profit and security from their loan portfolios. Handbook of Credit Scoring offers the insights of a select group of experts on credit scoring systems. Topics include: Scoring Applications, Generic and Customized Scoring Models, Using consumer credit information, Scorecard modelling with continuous vs. Classed variables, Basic scorecard Development and Validation, Going beyond Credit Score, Data mining, Scorecard collection strategies, project management for Credit Scoring