Core Banking Transformation – Implementation Challenges

Core banking transformation is one of the most daunting changes that a bank may go through in its lifetime. It is a complex process and may take up to several years for the complete transformation to take place. And hence, many banks are still reluctant to go ahead with this change.

However, being ready to go for this change is not just enough. Banks need to plan things properly to transform a successful one. Let’s check out the major challenges and the key steps to be performed for a successful transformation of core banking systems.

Challenges of Core Banking Transformation

Banks may go through several challenges when it comes to implementing a core banking system, and here are a few:

1. Cost of Implementation

The huge cost of implantation is one of the most significant restrictions to achieving this change. Most of the banks and financial institutions use old technologies that have a low cost of running compared to implementing a new core banking system. Also, the annual cost of maintenance, support, and licensing fees also increases the overall value.

2. Long Time Needed

Core banking transformation may take up to a few years, depending upon the size and complexities of the processes of a bank. So, identifying the tangible business benefits in advance and making a plan to achieve them can be quite challenging. Also, sometimes, it becomes difficult for the management to keep on investing in the process without seeing any significant benefits.

3. Managing the Stakeholders

Stakeholder management is a crucial task in implementing a core banking solution. Large banks have multiple stakeholders. And many times, it is challenging to convince them about the benefits that this transformation will bring along. Also, in some cases, they come up with new requirements that may increase the time and cost of implementation without any significant benefits.

Different Steps in Core Banking Transformation

For a core banking transformation to become successful, the banks must take some necessary steps. Let’s check them out in detail.

Step 1: Identify Substantial Business Benefits

The first step towards a successful transformation is identifying the real benefits that are achievable from this transformation. The process of implementation could continue for several years. So, it may not be easy for organizations to recognize the benefits at the beginning.

Also, more often than not, the bank management changes within these years of implementation. So, the business benefits need to be identified and documented correctly to save the project from getting scrapped.

Step 2: Communicate Effectively

Any kind of change is complex and challenging. Core banking transformation is no exception, either. So, you must communicate with your vendor effectively to help them understand the existing systems and processes. It will improve operational efficiency and make the implementation successful.

Choose the Right Core Banking Transformation Implementation Methodology

To implement a core banking system successfully, the banks must search for a robust implementation methodology. Also, it is equally important to stick to one method while performing the core banking implementation. Choose a core banking solution that will give a holistic and integrated approach.

1. Plan for Data Migration

Data migration is one of the crucial aspects of core banking transformation. A bank or a financial institution will have a variety of data types like customer information, KYC details, balance sheet data, contracts, and more. For a successful transformation, it is essential to migrate this data seamlessly to the new system.

However, many times, the traditional systems lack proper documentation. So, mapping, extraction, and migration of data often become challenging. Banks should put enough effort into migrating the data for a successful core banking implementation.

2. Define Timelines

Defining a realistic timeline for the transformation is indeed essential. It gives an outline of what is expected to be accomplished and by what time. Having accurate timelines will help banks get started on time and keep a check on whether everything is going on as per the plans. 

Critical Changes Core Banking Transformation Will Bring Along

1. Core banking solutions are designed to offer location-independent banking that enables banks to manage customer relationships better. Not only does it help them to improve the retention rate, but it also enhances customer loyalty significantly.

2. In most cases, analytics is integrated within the core banking solutions. So, the banks can access the valuable information that is collected in the backend system immediately. It enables them to get actionable insights in no time.

3. With location-independent banking, banks can easily handle a large number of customers without having to spend a lot on infrastructure and support. Incorporations of multiple standalone processes also help to optimize the cost of operation and support.

4. Core banking solutions automate various processes while improving the efficiency of bank employees. As many backend processes are manageable through automation, the front-end employees can focus on more important tasks like customer relationship building.

Conclusion

Cost of implementation, stakeholder management, and long time of execution may prohibit a bank from deciding on core banking transformation. However, with proper analysis and planning, banks can reap the benefits and get an edge over the competition.

Nidhi Raghuvanshi

Passionate Digital Marketer & Software Analyst. I recognize the importance of interactive engagement in today’s world and works towards building a steady flow of relevant, user-oriented content to obtain high-rank placement in search engine results.