IBM will provide Equifax with cost savings and future operational flexibility through IBM's on demand technology services. Equifax expects savings generated by this agreement to reach $5 million in 2003, $9 million in 2004, and grow to over $20 million annually by 2006. It also aims to provide greater control to Equifax over its investment in information technology systems and platforms, along with the flexibility to adopt emerging technologies.

"Equifax and IBM have a long, rich tradition as business partners," said Thomas F. Chapman, Chairman and CEO of Equifax. "This innovative agreement is another significant step forward. It provides Equifax a global technology infrastructure that is responsive to changes in demand, and allows us to continue delivering world class products and services to our customers."

"Equifax is on the leading edge of an important business trend, as it aggressively moves from delivering information to providing key business decisions for its customers," said Philip Guido, General Manager of IBM's Financial Services Sector. "By creating an on demand infrastructure, IBM is helping innovative companies like Equifax create competitive products and enter new markets while reducing costs and improving availability and performance."