Can a technology change improve bank performance? “Absolutely,” says Savings Institute President and CEO, Rheo A. Brouillard.

Since converting to COCC’s state-of-the-art computer system in 1999, the $475 million Savings Institute has increased its market presence by expanding its commercial portfolio, opening supermarket branches, and broadening its use of electronic banking channels. Growth to the bottom line resulted in a 34% increase in bank assets from 1999 to 2001 while maintaining the same level of cost.

“A key component in our growth strategy was improvements to our service infrastructure,” said Mr. Brouillard. “Converting to COCC gave us the state-of-the-art technology we needed to raise brand recognition while keeping costs in line.”

The Savings Institute increased its commercial loan portfolio by 16% since 2000, nearly doubled the number of ATMs available to the general public, and grew its branch network by 25%. The bank’s greater visibility attracted more customers who immediately sensed the Savings Institute’s efficiencies at every touch point.

“COCC’s customer-centric INSIGHT core system enables us to maintain a complete relationship profile for each customer,” said Mr. Brouillard. The INSIGHT system provides on-line access to customer driver’s licenses, enabling staff to match faces with names and to discretely verify signatures. Customer profiles quickly show staff members the depth of the customer’s banking relationship and provide the basis for cross-selling services.

That depth of information serves the commercial underwriting process and on-going account analyses to determine the suitability of products and customers. “When making commercial loans, the system’s flexibility helps us tailor our products to meet specific business customer needs,” Mr. Brouillard explained.

Integrated into COCC’s INSIGHT core is a complete Electronic Banking system. The bank’s 250,000 ATM, Debit Card and Internet Banking transactions per month are managed by a common database, simplifying channel management and increasing security. Cost is reduced through COCC’s innovative support of bank ATMs through the same communications equipment as the teller line.

COCC has also helped the bank control recurring costs. INSIGHT’s rapid balancing has reduced teller overtime. Statement options have reduced printing and postage costs. Customer-based information has helped reduce the cost of regulatory mailings.

Mr. Brouillard commented, “When you think of all the business areas touched by COCC’s technology, you can begin to understand how COCC enabled us to outperform our competition.”