4 Technologies That Are Key to the Bank Branch of the Future

In the July print issue of Bank Systems & Technology, we explored what the bank of the future will entail. A big aspect of that is the bank branch, and what becomes of it. Will it even exist in the future? Will it become more of a sales and service center, as some have predicted? Whatever happens, the bank branch will likely look vastly different in the future. Accenture Technology Labs, the technology research and development organization within Accenture, offers some of its ideas on this subje

1.Touchscreens Draw Customers

This interactive touchscreen window would face the street outside a bank in order to attract prospects and customers walking by the branch. Pedestrians would be able to use the touchscreen to get information on everything from bank products to local movie times.

[In the July print issue of Bank Systems & Technology, we explored what the bank of the future will entail. A big aspect of that is the role of the bank branch.]

2. Lounges Create Cross-Selling Opportunity

Along the lines of turning a branch into a sales center, this private lounge offers a customer technologies to access personalized wealth management tools or other advice. The wall screen on the left allows the banker to move the customer's credit history, bank statements and other items around with a wave of his arm, similar to playing a Nintendo Wii.

[The Branch Reborn: A new study by Cisco says banks need to understand that the branch is here to stay, but it needs to be transformed.]

3. Using Technology to Create a Personal Customer Experience

This interactive table is essentially a giant iPad -- a multi-touch, paperless work space for a banker and customer to review a personal financial plan or other documents.

[Life Without Channels: How to Provide a Seamless Customer Experience]

4. Facial Recognition Biometrics Offer Stronger Security

Another hotly debated topic when it comes to the bank of the future is the ATM terminal of the future. Many predict a "smart" ATM terminal that will do more than just dispense cash. This pictured futuristic terminal does even more. No bank card? Forgot your password? No problem -- this ATM terminal recognizes you through facial recognition biometrics with your NFC-enabled phone.

 

Bryan Yurcan is associate editor for Bank Systems and Technology. He has worked in various editorial capacities for newspapers and magazines for the past 8 years. After beginning his career as a municipal and courts reporter for daily newspapers in upstate New York, Bryan has ... View Full Bio