In today's market, UK Building Societies face a pressing need to adapt and innovate to meet evolving customer expectations and regulatory demands. Among the many tools at their disposal, three stand out as game-changers: Open Banking, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Cloud-hosted technology. Together, they form a potent trio that promises not just efficiency gains but also to dramatically enhance customer service and supercharge business growth. Let's delve into the key benefits they offer:
1. Open Banking:
In a recent report by Lenvi on consumer attitudes to borrowing we found 65% of those asked would embrace open banking if it led to a better mortgage rate. Open Banking has transformed the way financial institutions interact with data. By securely sharing financial information, Open Banking enables mortgage lenders to access a comprehensive view of their members’ finances, including income, spending habits, and existing liabilities. This newfound transparency enhances risk assessment and allows for more accurate lending decisions. It addresses historic problems faced by mortgage lenders by requiring less physical documentation and manual analysis and reducing the risk of fraud. Lenders can benefit from improved acquisition rates by offering more tailored products to new and existing members whilst being able to have a clearer view of their financial health.
Moreover, Open Banking fosters innovation by encouraging collaboration and the development of new financial products and services tailored to members' needs.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI):
AI technologies, including machine learning algorithms and predictive analytics, empower mortgage lenders to streamline operations and personalise member experiences. By analysing vast datasets and interpreting them in previously unthinkable ways, AI-driven systems can dramatically enhance service decisions and interventions. Automation of routine tasks such as document processing, underwriting, and risk assessment, reducing manual errors and processing times enables building societies to spend more time supporting their members with meaningful tasks, not losing the personal touch that gives them their unique position in the market.
3. Cloud-hosted technology:
Cloud computing has revolutionised the way mortgage lenders manage and leverage data, in addition to improved operational resilience, it provides scalability, flexibility, and cost-efficiency. Cloud-hosted platforms enable seamless integration of disparate systems, allowing for real-time data sharing and collaboration across departments.
Lenders can make real-time changes to their loan software and deploy them at speed. This timeline of product ideation to deployment offers huge market differentiation and competitive advantage.
Furthermore, cloud-based infrastructure offers enhanced security features, safeguarding sensitive customer information from cyber threats and data breaches. With the ability to access applications and data from any location, mortgage lenders can adapt quickly to changing market conditions and deliver superior service to members wherever they are.
Concluding thoughts
At Lenvi we know that a staggering 80% of borrowers will be looking to move to a new provider for their new mortgage deal. For the building society market, embracing Open Banking, AI, and Cloud-hosted technology is no longer an option but a strategic imperative to optimise member loyalty and enable growth. By harnessing the power of these transformative technologies, lenders can unlock new growth opportunities, mitigate risks, and stay ahead of the competition in an increasingly digital and customer-centric marketplace. However, success lies not just in adopting these technologies but in leveraging them thoughtfully to create value for both the business and its members. As the industry continues to evolve, those who embrace innovation will emerge as the leaders of tomorrow.