Issue link: http://www.insightdigital.biz/i/338735
w w w . i n s i g h t o n b u s i n e s s . c o m J u l y 2 0 14 • I nsIgh t | 33 Bank gives her over her money and business operations. While customers were oen reluctant to change banks in the past, recent industry studies suggest that online banking and mobile apps could put more than 35 percent of the consumer marketplace in play, particularly as digital natives become a greater part of the demographic mix. e competition to attract and retain those consumers has spawned an explosion in online tools and mobile apps that empower users to better control their money. "We are clearly hearing those expectations that digital must be part of the equation," says Brent R. tischler, executive vice president and head of payments and direct channels at Associated Bank. "We are seeing that those services matter when it comes to acquiring and retaining customers." to keep pace with demand, Associated revamped its website in 2013, as well as added several upgrades to its mobile banking app such as [continued] » peer-to-peer payments and creating an iPad version. is past year, the bank introduced snap deposit, which allows users to take a picture of a check and have it deposited in their account. "It's been a huge success from a customer standpoint," tischler says. "We have more deposits with that than our AtM fleet." FnB Fox Valley debuted a new mobile app in 2013, also complementing a recent upgrade to its website and online banking services. FnB mobile services also include a peer-to-peer service, POP MOnEY, and mobile deposits. For community banks such as FnB, mobile and online banking allow them to compete in the same arena as larger, national banks, says Kerri Bedor, vice president and chief marketing officer for FnB. "technology is leveling the playing field in the industry," Bedor says. "We are able to offer top-notch mobile and online banking services just like the larger institutions." Local credit unions also have experienced escalating demand for online and mobile apps that allow customers greater control over their money, says Amanda secor, senior vice president of marketing for Community First Credit Union. "ey give people a really nice toolbox of options," secor says of the app the credit union released in 2013. "When people are out and "Technology is leveling the playing field in the industry. We are able to offer top-notch mobile and online banking services just like the larger institutions." – ke r r i B e d o r, v i ce p re s i d e nt a n d c h i e f m a r ke t i n g o f f i ce r fo r F N B