Branch Image Capture - Beyond the Buzz
   
  In the world of item processing, branch image capture seems to be the topic on everyone’s lips these days, doesn’t it? Not only does this amazing technology capitalize on advances made possible by Check 21, it paves the way to a full image exchange environment in the financial industry. The technology also offers a great deal of promise to credit unions in terms of potential staff and operations efficiencies, possible cost savings, and greatly improved record keeping systems (eliminating microfilm, for example). Plus, the process can aid in fraud prevention.

However, branch image capture is also causing a lot of confusion – not surprising considering some of the information we at Members United have seen from vendors. Some of this material features convenient omissions; other claims are simply overstated. How can you tell the difference?

The key is to learn all you can now, so the decisions you make are highly informed. While some credit unions may stand to benefit from adopting a branch capture system right away, check truncation at the branch level also raises questions and concerns. At the most basic level, a credit union must be confident in:
> selecting the right provider
> establishing new processes 
> implementing new workflows 

Though branch image capture offers potential improvements and efficiencies, risks arise when attempting to ensure the seamless transfer of check images and electronic files. Considerations that merit special attention by credit unions include bandwidth, image quality, the geographic landscape, and the impact on operations, to name a few. Twelve of these items have been pulled together in a handy Members United reference list for credit unions titled Branch Image Capture’s Dirty Dozen.

Yes, it’s an exciting time in check processing, but as you can see, branch image capture is not as simple as equipment and software. At Members United Corporate FCU,  we're here with objective guidance to help you assess whether the time is right for your credit union... or not. 

Your credit union’s Senior Business Consultant can provide direction about specific considerations, one-on-one. If you need help building your business case for branch image capture, turn to your trusted partners here at Members United.

Learn more about our branch image capture solution, Virtual Item Processing (pdf).