Memo to Lenders: Go Digital or Go Home

Memo to Lenders: Go Digital or Go Home

The benefits of swapping analog, manual processes for digital ones are obvious. But that doesn’t mean they don’t bear repeating — especially against a backdrop of fierce demand for streamlined, efficient and customer-friendly financial processes. “Digital basically upends manual, paper-heavy and operationally cost-intensive processes,” Andrea Moe , vice president of customer success at Amount , told PYMNTS during a conversation for the series “ What’s Next in Payments: How Do You Do Digital? ” It’s these processes that have traditionally defined legacy banking systems, Moe added, stressing that adopting digital tools within the financial services space not only enhances operations and customer engagement, but also drives greater profitability. This shift is especially important as customer expectations increasingly favor speed, convenience and automation in financial services. “Modern money experiences typically engage younger generations of banking customers,” Moe said. Revolutionizing Digital Engagement in Lending Amount’s core offering lies in its loan origination and account opening software solutions. These tools help lenders, from community banks to nonbanking financial institutions, move away from creaking and outdated workflows that result in friction-filled experiences for their customers. “Part of our role is helping our clients with their own customers by looking at the overall effectiveness […]

Mantel Group completes claims system project for HBF

Mantel Group completes claims system project for HBF

Part of HBF’s multi-year digital transformation initiative. Credit: Adam Durbin (Mantel Group) Mantel Group has completed the design and build of HBF Insurance Group’s claims system on Amazon Web Services (AWS) as part of HBF’s ongoing digital transformation imitative. The multi-year digital project was started in 2021 and within 18 months, Mantel Group delivered critical system migrations, platform readiness, AWS cloud migration and APRA security consulting. HBF aimed to modernise its technology by moving HBF from outdated legacy systems, including a core insurance mainframe, to cloud-based infrastructure. Mantel Group chief technology officer Adam Durbin said HBF successfully executed a large, complex technology transformation involving sensitive data and critical systems “Together, we have developed a resilient technology architecture that will enable amazing member experiences,” he said. HBF chief information and transformation officer Sanjeev Gupta said the transformation project was the culmination of many years of hard work. “I sincerely thank our employees as well as our delivery partners, including PwC, Civica, Deloitte, Salesforce, Amazon Web Services, Mantel Group and many others who have supported in the build, delivery, testing and implementation of this significant program,” he said.

Redseer study highlights digital transformation of India's B2B kirana market

Redseer study highlights digital transformation of India’s B2B kirana market

While traditional retail channels still dominate India’s essentials market, the rapid growth of digital B2B solutions is likely to capture a larger share in the coming years. India’s traditional retail market, dominated by over 15 million kirana stores, is undergoing a significant transformation. A new study by Redseer Strategy Consultants reveals that the B2B kirana market , which has long relied on fragmented, traditional trade-distribution models, is embracing digital innovation through eB2B (ecommerce-led Business to Business) platforms, fueling rapid growth and operational efficiency in the sector. The report, titled ‘B2B e-commerce Opportunity in India’, outlines how the rise of digital solutions is reshaping the market, which has historically faced challenges. Kirana stores, especially in remote and rural regions, are increasingly turning to eB2B platforms for better procurement management, access to formal credit, and superior customer service. The study also highlights how udaan , India’s leading eB2B platform, has solidified its position as the preferred partner for kirana stores in Bengaluru and Hyderabad, significantly outpacing other competitors in the market. The findings highlight udaan’s remarkable growth, capturing a significant market share and continuing to expand and strengthen its position, while other eB2B players have been in decline. Anil Kumar, Founder […]

A digital government as a catalyst for improving citizen services

A digital government as a catalyst for improving citizen services

Governments in the Middle are prioritizing digital transformation to revolutionize how they serve their citizens. Adel Alfalasi , UAE chief executive at Oliver Wyman, outlines how the shift to digital can help improve efficiency, transparency, and citizen satisfaction. Interactions with government entities can often be complex and time-consuming. Navigating bureaucratic processes can be frustrating, as individuals frequently encounter challenges in obtaining necessary document and information. A shared opportunity is the potential for streamlining bureaucratic processes. By addressing this challenge, citizen satisfaction can be enhanced and economic growth can be fostered. Embracing digital transformation presents a unique opportunity for governments to optimize services, personalize citizen experiences, and unlock new avenues for engagement. Learning from successes stories Several Middle Eastern countries are pioneering innovative approaches. The key strategies emerging from successful programs include: Understanding citizen needs : effective transformation requires a shift from siloed service design. User research becomes paramount to understand evolving citizen expectations. Think about user-friendly interfaces, clear communication, and a focus on efficient service delivery. Leveraging technology for a seamless experience : technology is a game-changer. Many governments are exploring data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) to personalize services, predict citizen needs, and create a seamless experience. Think […]

Oh how far manufacturing has come in adopting emerging technologies

Oh how far manufacturing has come in adopting emerging technologies

66e9802f9692b08e20be7053 Dreamstime M 139993271 As we celebrate Manufacturing Day on Oct. 4, it’s a fitting moment for manufacturers to reflect on their existing operational strategies and to set the stage for future success. The past few years have tested manufacturing with numerous challenges, including a global pandemic and resulting supply chain disruptions, economic volatility, and geopolitical tensions. This year’s celebration offers an opportunity to turn those challenges into catalysts for innovation and growth. Manufacturing leaders have a lot to be optimistic about, with over 68% of executives feeling positive about their company’s outlook. Although industry growth is expected to remain stagnant or contract slightly through 2024, experts predict output will recover next year and remain steady through 2028. See also: How universities help manufacturers with technology testing, adoption To capitalize on this positive outlook and drive sustained success, manufacturers can benefit from a focus on three key areas: leveraging emerging technologies, embracing nearshoring, and investing in their workforce. Leverage emerging technologies Manufacturing Day serves as a reminder of how far industry has come in adopting new technologies. To stay ahead, manufacturers must continue to integrate automation and the latest digital solutions into their operations. Implementing robotics on the factory […]

Digital transformation in focus as BusinessDay announces September Millennial Hangout

Digital transformation in focus as BusinessDay announces September Millennial Hangout

Millennial Hangout BusinessDay Media Limited is thrilled to announce the September edition of its highly anticipated monthly webinar series, The Millennial Hangout. This webinar has become a pivotal platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration among Nigeria’s millennial professionals. Each edition explores strategies and insights to help attendees achieve financial independence, stay informed on business and the economy, and make informated financial decisions. Scheduled for Thursday, September 19, 2024, at 10 AM (WAT), this month’s edition will dive into the theme “Digital Transformation and Startups for Millennials”. The session is designed to provide millennial entrepreneurs, innovators, and professionals with actionable tools and insights to excel in Nigeria’s ever evolving digital landscape. Linda Ochugbua, the manager of digital sales at BusinessDay, stated that the “Millennial Hangout series, curated by BusinessDay Media Limited, is dedicated to driving innovation, inspiring growth, and supporting business development among emerging leaders”. Since its inception, the series has attracted a diverse group of entrepreneurs, digital professionals, and startup founders, fostering a vibrant community committed to shaping the future of business both in Nigeria and globally. This September edition will feature industry leaders from the digital and entrepreneurial sectors, offering a wealth of knowledge through presentations and […]

UN officials underline uneven progress in digital transformation worldwide

UN officials underline uneven progress in digital transformation worldwide

UN officials have warned that as the digital world continues to transform, developing regions are at risk of being left behind. Although he hailed the progress made in digital government advances, the UN Assistant Secretary General for Economic Development, Navid Hanif, said there are still disparities between regions. "The development of digital government has seen a significant upward trend. That’s good news, and it’s worldwide, with all regions leveraging technology to enhance government services and improve people’s engagement”, Hanif said. But, he added, ”still, 1.37 billion people remain on the wrong side of the digital divide, with no access." UN officials also showed data on the world’s top digital performers, with Denmark topping the list. Vincenzo Aquaro, Chief of the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs Digital Government Branch, said that also among the 18 leading countries are Germany, Spain and Saudi Arabia. The UN is calling for more support to developing nations, especially in Africa, to reduce digital inequalities.

LIC commits Rs 600 crore towards its digital transformation journey

LIC commits Rs 600 crore towards its digital transformation journey

LIC (Photo: Shutterstock) State-owned Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has committed Rs 600 crore towards its digital transformation journey, said Sunder Krishnan, chief risk officer (CRO), LIC, on Wednesday. Additionally, the insurance giant is aiming to become completely "paperless" in two years’ time, he said. Speaking at an event organised by the Bengal Chamber of Commerce in Mumbai, Krishnan said, “We have already hired a large system integrator for more than Rs 400 crore; we have hired a consultant for digital transformation for Rs 100 crore; and Rs 100 crore for agency transformation. So, in total, Rs 600 crore is being spent on digital transformation.” Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp Earlier this week, the life insurer announced that it had roped in tech giant Infosys to develop its next-generation digital platform, which will lay the foundation for building high-value business applications, including customer and sales super apps, portals, and digital branches for the corporation. This is part of the life insurer’s digital transformation programme – Digital Innovation and Value Enhancement (DIVE). The programme is aimed at strengthening the insurance company’s digital platform to provide a superior experience for its customers, field forces, partners, and employees. […]

How RTMC used Ookla’s Data Services to Empower Uzbekistan’s Digital Transformation [Case Study]

How RTMC used Ookla’s Data Services to Empower Uzbekistan’s Digital Transformation [Case Study]

The telecommunications landscape in Central Asia is evolving rapidly, and Uzbekistan has risen to the challenge with its ambitious Digital Uzbekistan 2030 plan. This comprehensive national strategy aims to improve the country’s digital infrastructure, increase the efficiency of government services, and foster innovation and economic growth through the integration of modern technologies. The Republican Telecommunications Management Center of Uzbekistan (RTMC), responsible for implementing this strategy, recognized that data-driven decision making and real-time connectivity performance data were crucial for success. RTMC turned to Ookla’s Speedtest Intelligence® data, which has played a key role in Uzbekistan’s journey, particularly in the implementation of 5G technology and the overall improvement of connectivity in the country. Situation As RTMC began implementing Digital Uzbekistan 2030, they encountered a significant challenge: a lack of objective, real-time network performance data to show progress and evaluate user experiences. A key objective of the strategy was ensuring a widespread penetration of 5G technology throughout the country, but RTMC needed a way to evaluate 5G deployments and performance. Traditional methods of on-site measurements proved to be sporadic and often not comprehensive enough to provide a clear picture of the evolving telecommunications landscape. Read the full case study here (available in […]