Account Scoring and Resource Matching for Securities Research

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Solution Overview

Problem

The securities research industry faces inefficiencies in resource allocation due to service levels being driven by analyst rankings rather than client profitability, leading to suboptimal allocation of resources.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising an account scoring module and a resource matching module that generates scores for each account based on attributes and their importance, then allocates resources such as analyst-contact relationships by distributing preference points according to these scores, ensuring efficient allocation of limited resources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If service levels are driven by analyst rankings, then analyst satisfaction and service quality are improved, but resource allocation efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice qualityVSAvoidresource allocation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the parameters used for resource allocation from analyst rankings to a multi-factor scoring system that includes account profitability, growth potential, service level, and strategic importance. This parameter transformation resolves the contradiction by decoupling resource allocation from analyst preferences while maintaining service quality through systematic evaluation of multiple account attributes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where account scores are continuously updated based on actual performance data, resource utilization outcomes, and changing business conditions. This feedback loop ensures that resource allocation remains aligned with both service quality requirements and efficiency goals, as the scoring system adapts to reflect actual account value and resource effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If more service resources are allocated to high-ranking analysts' clients, then service quality is improved, but overall department profitability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice levelVSAvoiddepartment profitability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the resource allocation decision parameters to include direct profitability metrics and weighted account scores that balance service quality with financial impact. By incorporating account profitability, revenue potential, and resource efficiency into the scoring system, the patent ensures that service resources are allocated to accounts that generate the best return while maintaining appropriate service levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies differentiated service resource allocation to different account segments based on their specific characteristics and value to the department. High-profitability accounts receive proportionally more resources, while lower-value accounts receive minimal necessary service. This local quality approach ensures that service quality is optimized for each account segment according to its contribution to departmental goals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Ease of operation

If resources are allocated based on analyst preferences, then analyst motivation is improved, but resource utilization efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanalyst motivationVSAvoidresource utilization efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables analysts to self-manage their resource allocation within the framework of account scores and departmental priorities. Analysts can select which accounts to service from those that meet the scoring criteria, maintaining their autonomy and motivation while ensuring that overall resource allocation aligns with profitability and efficiency goals. This self-service approach resolves the contradiction by giving analysts control over their work assignments without allowing personal preferences to drive inefficient allocation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS7689490B2Matching resources of a securities research department to accounts of the department
Publication Date: 2010.03.30 MORGAN STANLEY SERVICES GROUP INC
  • US7689490B2 patent drawing
  • US7689490B2 patent drawing
  • US7689490B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods for allocating limited resources of a securities research department to accounts of the department are disclosed. According to various embodiments, the system includes an account scoring module and a resource matching module. The account scoring module is for generating a score for each account, and the resource matching module is for matching the resources of the department to the accounts based on the scores for each account.