Leveraging digital transformations is extremely important for digital banking in 2024, and the ever-increasing pressure to follow digital banking trends is being felt across the industry. From apps to indirect lending on online splurges, the American (and global) consumer base enjoys a wide range of options to customize their financial experiences.
Banks and credit unions that lag behind the finance industry’s wave of digital transformations are left at a competitive disadvantage, especially as convenience and speed are two highly valuable qualities for potential clients. In this blog, we’ll discuss how to provide clients with a seamless experience through software to improve member retention and satisfaction.
Digital Banking Software: An Overview
To start, let’s define what’s behind the digital transformations in banking. Digital banking software—or credit union technology—refers to the software solutions used by banks and credit unions to provide online and mobile banking services to their customers. This includes mobile banking applications, online banking platforms, payment processing software, fraud detection and prevention software, and other digital solutions that allow customers to perform banking transactions without having to physically visit a branch.
In many ways, the origins of digital banking transformations in banking and financial services can be traced back to the late 1990s when online banking started gaining popularity. In 1994, Stanford Federal Credit Union became the first to offer its customers an internet banking experience. Today, following rapid growth in popularity, digital banking is a crucial part of the financial industry.
Digital banking software can optimize the operational systems of banks and credit unions by reducing their operating costs. This could include the adoption of automated digital services, such as online account opening, indirect loan application methods to reach a larger volume of borrowers, and online bill payments. For customers, the many digital banking transformations we’re seeing provide convenience and accessibility, allowing them to manage their finances on the go from their mobile device or computer. So, what forms of software are banks and credit unions using today?
Solutions Banks or Credit Unions Should Leverage
Digital banking can enhance overall security by providing multi-factor authentication, transaction monitoring, and fraud detection. It is one of the most important factors in the digital banking transformations of the modern age. Here are some of the top software options for financial institutions in today’s digital age.
Mobile Banking Applications:
If you’re looking to enhance your customers’ online experience, apps are a great way to give them freedom and efficiency. Mobile banking applications are essential for financial institutions to provide a convenient and accessible experience to their customer base. They allow customers to access their accounts and perform banking transactions from wherever they have access to WiFi or phone service.
Payment Processing Software:
Payment processing software is a must-have for financial institutions that need to process electronic payments and loan applications efficiently and securely. Take underwriting, for example. Having the right payment processing software can reduce the risk of human error by catching simple mistakes like incorrect payment information or missing application answers.
Fraud Detection and Prevention Software:
Fraud detection and prevention software are essential for financial institutions to prevent financial loss due to fraudulent activities. With loan fraud on the rise, banks and credit unions must make sure they have a solid process in place to avoid becoming the next victim.
What Technologies Drive Growth for Banks and Credit Unions?
Banks and other financial institutions can take advantage of a growing list of advanced technologies to pursue digital transformation. Below are some of the most popular technologies with examples.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
Many banks and credit unions are now turning to artificial intelligence to take another step ahead in the digital banking transformation. AI can help banks and credit unions reduce the need to scale overhead costs and even gather valuable insights to optimize customer experiences. AI can be a very useful tool for providing customers with real-time and accurate answers to their questions without needing to sit on hold to speak with customer service representatives.
Machine learning is often used in conjunction with AI to gather and compare data. When machine learning detects changes in user data, it can make adjustments to better suit the user. For example, it might be used to enhance fraud detection.
Blockchain
Blockchain is used to enhance the customer experience in the banking industry. It has improved security measures to ensure proper identity and reduce fraud, as well as paved the way for more intuitive online and mobile banking platforms and user interfaces.
Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things has introduced many advancements to the banking industry. It is used in a variety of applications, such as biometrics, real-time data analysis, contactless payments, risk management, and more. It has helped to connect the different platforms and aspects of digital and mobile banking to make the process more seamless.
Cloud Computing and APIs
Cloud computing allows the banking industry to operate with internet-based servers, software, storage, analytics, intelligence, and other resources. The technology helps to improve productivity and gives easier and faster access to financial products.
With the growth of cloud computing, banks are now more frequently using application programming interfaces (APIs) to allow data sharing. Banks can use APIs to reach new customers in different industries and markets.
Big Data Analytics
Big data analytics has allowed banks to gather huge amounts of information about customer feedback, underwriting, risk management, transactions, and so much more. With each piece of data, the banking industry has discovered patterns and opportunities for improvement.
What are the Benefits of Digital Transformation in Banking?
Digital transformation in the finance industry can lead to many benefits for financial institutions, businesses, and customers alike. In general, the technology leading the digital transformation is customer-centered, which has created more competition, customer-friendly financial products, and greater accessibility.
Businesses have increasingly had to put resources toward creating online experiences that connect banks and customers. Customers can shop and access financial products directly from a business’s website or mobile app. Not only does this improve conversion rates for businesses and convenience for customers, but it has also allowed banks and credit unions to cost-effectively expand into other verticals.
That said, one of the most important benefits of digital transformation in banking has been the personalization of finance. Banks can use technology to analyze customer needs and preferences, and provide exactly what each customer wants at exactly the right time. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, customers can now access the financial products that are most beneficial to their situation. So, what else can we expect from digital transformation in banking?
Where is the Industry Headed?
It’s a complicated question, but here are some of the biggest 2024 banking trends that financial institutions should keep their eyes on in the coming years.
Increasing Revenue Streams with Indirect Lending
Offering loans through an intermediary like Web Finance Direct can give banks and credit unions access to a wider, more qualified group of applicants. This allows dealerships and lenders alike to offer a better, wider range of loan options to applicants. Not to mention, applicants can have an easier, more enjoyable experience working with lenders who leverage technologies during the indirect lending process.
Software’s Role Should Continue Growing
Advances in digital banking have contributed to a decline in in-person banking. When it comes to indirect lending, even eSignatures and facial recognition software are starting to evolve into a much larger role, allowing consumers to be approved for and sign loans on their phones or computers.
How Much Will AI’s Role Expand?
AI is here to stay. As more proficient chatbots such as ChatGPT develop, banks and credit unions should continue to monitor how they can implement them in their day-to-day operations. According to a study conducted by Accenture, the banking industry stands to benefit from AI through a 22-30% increase in productivity.
Paired with the skills in sales, marketing, and customer service departments, banks and credit unions could begin to see revenue increases by using AI across multiple departments. Up until now, many banks have used AI for basic applications, such as aiding customer service representatives or improving risk management. However, the industry is gearing up to make more advanced moves like using AI to offer financial advice. The question becomes: will you be ready to keep up?
How Web Finance Direct Can Simplify Indirect Lending
For banks and credit unions looking to join a network of dealerships, Web Finance Direct has the answer. There are plenty of benefits, including leveraging technology across our F&I services to streamline the experience. So, how are we playing a role in digital banking transformations?
We Find Qualified Applicants for Your Bank or Credit Union
Efficiency is key in 2024. As a member of Web Finance Direct’s diverse lender and dealership network, we’ll do the hard work of finding qualified auto, marine, RV, or powersport applicants for your bank or credit union by opening the door to our robust dealership network.
We Vet Every Application to Prevent Fraud
Equally as important as having the right software is a system for detecting loan fraud before it happens. We’ll help your financial institution do the proper due diligence to ensure every loan applicant is legitimate.
We Reduce the Amount of Paperwork
Overwhelming paperwork needs to be simplified in 2024. Web Finance Direct makes it easy—from giving you one report each year summarizing all the information of dealerships your bank or credit union has worked with, to working with each applicant to provide your bank or credit union with the proper documents they need to apply.
If you’re looking to learn more about the benefits of joining our network, contact us to get in touch with our team of experts. You can also check out our blog to stay on top of all the trending topics in the world of digital banking transformations and much more.
FAQs
What is digital banking software?
Digital banking software refers to any type of software that aids in digital banking processes. Examples of digital banking include setting up accounts, making investments, sending or receiving money, checking balances using a mobile app, and any other action related to a financial account.
How can banks use digital platforms to accelerate growth?
According to the American Bankers Association, a staggering 71% of consumers prefer to use mobile apps or computer platforms to manage their finances. These digital platforms are more convenient for consumers, and recent technologies have helped to make them secure. In addition, they provide a highly personalized experience to help customers in their specific financial situations. Overall, these benefits lead to higher levels of customer satisfaction and increased revenue.
What is the biggest challenge facing credit unions?
The current economic uncertainties (e.g., rising prices, a volatile job market, and increased interest rates) have made it very difficult for banks and credit unions to find new members and loan applicants.
What are some digital financial services?
When you hear digital financial services, think of things like mobile banking, innovative payment processing software, or credit union software systems.