In capitalizing on these opportunities, the importance of choosing the right technology partner is stronger than ever. For community bankers who want their foot in the door of new markets, a trusted partnership yielding new technologies, product offerings, and more is invaluable. Accordingly, the answers to the following questions must inform community bankers’ decisions: 1. Which partner can provide the most consistently innovative and agile technology? 2. Which partnership will equip my bank with the most robust set of product offerings and capabilities? 3. Which partner recognizes the true value of community banking and intends to uphold and build on my bank’s identity and legacy? 4. Which partner can be trusted to expertly guide this journey and deliver the information my bank needs to excel in the digital age? As community bankers make the careful choice of whom to partner with in charting their future course, settling for a provider who falls short in their answer to one or more of these questions is simply not enough. Too often, for example, a provider will attempt to sell community bankers the assurance of technology that is not yet live. They market the anticipation of forward-thinking innovation without the active, proven products to back it. Remaining mindful of such deception is important. When a partnership signifies an investment in the continued success of a community bank, there is no room for false promises. In exceeding expectations through ever-evolving, cutting-edge technology, a community bank’s partner should of course augment the products and services offered both locally and digitally. Trusted guidance and a customized, consultative approach should help determine exactly how that is executed. Doing so successfully, however, demands a commitment to customer-centricity. Larger institutions may have the technological advantage, but a community bank’s dedication to strong customer relationships will always be its greatest differentiator. As such, a technology partner who recognizes, values, and upholds this standard of people-first banking is essential — that is how community banking endures and prospers. Sarah Fankhauser, President and CEO of DCI (the privatelyowned developer of core processing, digital banking, and Fintech processing solutions), shares her insight on the matter, saying, “DCI’s community banking partners might come to us for our technology, but our commitment to customer service is why they stay. In addition to innovative offerings, finding a technology provider who cares enough to be your partner through it all is what makes a successful collaboration. It’s the difference between surviving versus thriving in today’s market.” The task of adapting and advancing in a financial landscape where technology dominates is certainly a challenge for community banks. More than that, however, it is an opportunity. By embracing innovation and building partnerships with trusted technology providers, community banks can expand their reach, diversify their income streams, and thrive in the digital age. With regard to the challenges ahead, there is no doubt that leveraged technology and a continued commitment to customer service will lead this vital force for our economy far. Rest assured: the future of community banking is bright. To learn more, please visit www.datacenterinc.com. Is your community bank secure? Meet Dina. Dina provides clients with the guidance they need to steer clear of card fraud all year long. Working together with ICBA Payments partners, she ensures client banks are receiving the level of care and support they deserve. Even when she’s waiting to pick up her kid from practice, she’s scribbling notes on how we can better protect banks from fraud. By working with ICBA Payments, your bank has Dina’s ongoing support. Learn more at icbapayments.com NEBRASKA INDEPENDENT BANKER 9
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