Case Study

Core Systems Architecture Audit:

BTE Consulting helps credit unions evaluate software viability and functionality

The Clients

BTE Consulting’s clients consisted of multiple credit unions who collaboratively undertook a critical core systems review.

The Challenge

Each of the credit unions were considering implementation of new core processing information system software. As a multi-million dollar investment, significantly impacting personnel, processes and productivity, the consideration of a core system deployment was not a trivial decision.   

To expedite and validate the decision-making process, the credit unions sought an independent review of the software. The goals of the evaluation were twofold: 

1. to evaluate the viability of the product itself, including its application architecture, data architecture, process architecture, and supporting talent network, and
2. to estimate the impact of deployment on each participant’s business environment, from a technical, managerial and procedural perspective.

The Solution

Based on the strength of a previous engagement with one of the participating credit unions, BTE Consulting was selected for the initiative. BTE’s recognized domain expertise led directly to a no-bid engagement to conduct an architecture audit of the proposed core system software. 

Using its proprietary enterprise software selection methodology and toolset, BTE created a unique analysis requirements list, denoting both technical and procedural categories. The evaluation categories covered current state capabilities—strengths and weaknesses—for both the software provider and credit unions. Items of consideration included:

A. Technology & Architecture

BTE evaluated every aspect of the proposed system’s potential integration with legacy systems, data and processes. From core business logic and open systems capability to data integrity and project management tools, a comprehensive review was conducted.

B. Talent Network & Product Support

BTE assessed the vendor’s ability to manage the development, deployment and support of the software long-term. In particular, they reviewed the experience and proficiency of both the vendor’s and clients’ key team members, focusing on project management, IT staff and support personnel.

C. Implementation Viability

Finally, BTE made a case for the system’s suitability based on existing technology, regulatory requirements and the business environment. Using “what if” implementation scenarios, BTE estimated the level of time, effort and cost necessary for successful deployment. 

The Approach

BTE Consulting’s structured project plan facilitated a complete evaluation in a very tight timeframe—less than six weeks from start to finish. Designed to bridge the gap between business and technology, BTE’s proprietary approach guides complex decisions through sound analysis and proven methodology.

During the discovery phase, BTE documented the technical footprint of each credit union through a series of well thought out discovery tasks. Using its own Enterprise Architecture Repository software, BTE captured detailed information about each participant’s business operations, encompassing applications, data, personnel, processes, and policies.

Additionally, BTE worked directly with the software provider by:

• Meeting onsite with their managers, architects and technology team
• Walking through demonstrations of selected functionality
• Examining available code and business models
• Reviewing software development and support processes, procedures and methods

To simplify the presentation of findings, BTE employed a “Green/Yellow/Red” methodology for each specific evaluation category. Final documentation included detailed analysis and recommendations in the areas of application viability, data viability and process viability.

The Results

Within the stated timeframe, BTE delivered a comprehensive statement of findings rationalizing the functionality and feasibility of the proposed core system software.

BTE’s report contained a straightforward assessment of technology and talent, backed by comprehensive research, sound business analysis and thorough documentation. Additionally, because vendor neutrality lies at the heart of BTE’s reputation for integrity, the recommendations produced were unbiased and of the highest standards. This allowed the credit unions to make evidence-based decisions and proceed with using the vendor, or not, with confidence.

Rationalizing Business & Technology. Achieving Results.

BTE Consulting is a boutique IT strategy and systems architecture firm that helps companies rationalize business and technology to achieve greater efficiency, growth and profitability. Please contact us for client references, sample discovery questionnaires and a demonstration of our Enterprise Architecture Repository system. For more information on our capabilities and approach, visit www.bte-inc.com.