Why not just give cash as an award?

Incentive industry experts have compiled years of data that consistently shows evidence that cash awards are not as effective as non-cash awards (merchandise/travel awards).

Cash simply disappears into a participant’s wallet to be used for basic expenses; non-cash awards leave a memorable and tangible reminder of an individual's achievement and the company that helped make it possible.

In one industry case study, participants were divided into two groups – one motivated by cash and the other motivated by merchandise and travel. Results showed that participants in the latter group produced results that were almost 50% greater than those motivated by just cash.