The Rise of Video Banking: A Smarter, More Human Way to Connect

[Updated October 2025] As digital transformation reshapes how members interact with their credit unions, one truth remains clear: people still want personal connections—just delivered in more flexible ways. Video banking bridges that gap, giving members the convenience of remote access with the warmth of a face-to-face experience. With Better Lobby’s Flexible Branches Video Meetings module, credit unions can offer members the best of both worlds. Whether a member walks into a branch, joins a virtual queue from home, or connects from their office, they can instantly meet with the right expert—without the need for travel or long wait times. Why Video Matters for Modern Credit Unions Video banking isn’t just about technology—it’s about choice. Members get to decide how they want to interact: In-branch video rooms connect members to remote specialists for services like loans, mortgages, or investments. At-home appointments make it easier for busy members to handle financial matters on their own schedule. Virtual walk-ups allow spontaneous, real-time help without needing to wait for an open slot. This flexibility helps credit unions deliver more consistent service, reduce pressure on call centers, and extend the expertise of their staff across multiple branches. Beyond Convenience: Building Trust Through Connection Unlike chatbots or long phone queues, video calls provide a human face, tone, and empathy—factors that strengthen trust and loyalty. Members feel seen and heard, even when meeting remotely. And for credit unions, this approach demonstrates a commitment to innovation that still puts people first. How Better Lobby Makes Video Banking Simple and Seamless Better Lobby’s Flexible Branches Video Meetings module is built to help credit unions meet members wherever they are—without compromising personal service. What sets it apart is how naturally it integrates into both your physical branches and your digital channels. 1. One System, Many ChannelsFrom walk-ins at video-equipped branches to remote appointments booked online, all sessions are managed in a single, streamlined system. Staff can switch between in-person and remote meetings effortlessly, and members always enjoy a consistent experience. 2. Smarter Scheduling and RoutingOur intelligent appointment system automatically connects members with the right staff—whether that person is at HQ, working from home, or supporting multiple branches. Flexible scheduling tools ensure availability aligns with demand, reducing idle time and boosting efficiency. 3. A Familiar, Secure EnvironmentMembers don’t have to download extra software or struggle with setup. Better Lobby’s secure, browser-based video meetings make it easy to connect from any device. Every interaction is encrypted, compliant, and built with credit union standards in mind. 4. Extend Your Expertise Across BranchesWith video banking, credit unions can make the most of specialized staff—like mortgage or investment advisors—without needing them physically present in every branch. Members still get expert help when they need it, no matter their location. 5. Data and Insights You Can UseEvery appointment, whether in person or virtual, feeds into Better Lobby’s reporting dashboards. This gives branch managers a complete picture of how members engage with their credit union, helping guide staffing decisions and long-term strategy. Better Lobby’s video tools don’t just add convenience—they redefine accessibility. By combining flexible scheduling, seamless technology, and real human connection, your credit union can serve more members, more efficiently, and with more impact. Key Takeaway Video done well—through virtual walk-ups or scheduled appointments—gives members greater choice, more convenience, and a better experience overall. With Better Lobby’s video banking tools, credit unions can connect members with real people, wherever they are, while keeping service seamless and human-centered.   The following section is the original post from November 2021. While some product names and screenshots may be outdated, we’ve kept it here for historical reference. Many surveys have found that speaking directly with a member of staff is the most efficient way of resolving consumers’ issues. If an interaction can’t be face to face, then video comes in a strong second as a way to help create a better connection between people. By investing in video banking technology like our Flexible Branches Video Meetings module, CUs are able to offer a mix of walk-in and remote video appointments. Expert staff can work from your HQ – or from their home – to help members at any of your video-equipped branches. Of course, members could also join the video queue from their home, office or anywhere from their mobile device. Key Takeaway: Video done well via virtual walk-ups or by appointments delivers greater choice of channels, more convenient service, and while easing pressure on call centers.

Video Meeting Solutions for Remote Banking Services

A photo of two people having a video meeting on a computer. Better Branches offers a video meeting module called Flexible Branches Video, allowing Credit Unions to talk to their members.

In the digital age, remote banking services are more than a convenience—they are a necessity. With the rise of video meeting solutions, financial institutions can offer personal, real-time services to their customers regardless of geographic barriers. This article explores the integration of video meeting solutions into remote banking services, highlighting their benefits, implementation strategies, and best practices. Introduction to Video Meeting Solutions in Banking What Are Video Meeting Solutions? Video meeting solutions involve software platforms that enable virtual face-to-face interactions between bank staff and customers using video calls. These platforms are designed to simulate an in-branch experience, providing personal customer service without the need for physical presence. Why Incorporate Video Meetings in Banking? The adoption of video meeting solutions allows credit unions and banks to extend their reach, offer extended service hours, and improve customer satisfaction by providing convenient, immediate banking assistance. Benefits of Video Meeting Solutions Expanding Accessibility Imagine talking to your credit union manager or loan officer from your living room or while at a park. Video meetings make this possible. You don’t need to travel to a branch, which is great if you live far away or find it hard to move around. This technology lets you connect with your credit union no matter where you are, just like video calling your family. Good to Know: You can use any device with a camera, like your smartphone or tablet, to start a video meeting with your credit union. It’s just like making a video call to a friend! Enhancing Customer Experience Have you ever wished that banking felt more personal? Video meetings help make this happen. When you can see and talk to someone face-to-face, even through a screen, it feels more friendly. Credit unions can give you advice, help solve your problems, and really get to know you through these video chats. This makes you feel valued and builds trust, making you more likely to stick with your credit union. Good to Know: Some credit unions even let you schedule video meetings ahead of time, so you can plan when to discuss important things, just like setting up a coffee date. Operational Efficiency Think of how much time you spend traveling to a branch and waiting for your turn. Video meetings cut all that out. They save money for credit unions because they need less space and fewer resources like electricity and furniture. They also make things more efficient by letting staff talk to more members in less time, without anyone having to travel. Good to Know: Credit unions that use video meetings can sometimes help you faster and more often because their staff isn’t tied up with only the people who walk into a branch. Implementing Video Meeting Solutions in Banking Choosing the Right Platform When your credit union starts using video meetings, the first big step is picking the right platform. There are many video conferencing solutions. This is super important because it needs to be safe, work well, and follow strict rules set by people who watch over privacy and security in banking. You want a system that keeps all your chats private (that’s what end-to-end encryption does), is easy for everyone to use, and works well with the computer systems the credit union already has. Training and Adoption Just having the tools isn’t enough. Everyone needs to know how to use them. Credit unions should teach their staff how to use video meeting tools so they can help you best. And for members like you, they should make easy guides or maybe even quick video tutorials that show you how to start a video call. This makes sure everyone feels okay using the new tech. Good to Know: Some credit unions might offer a demo video call when you first try out their service, so you can learn by doing without the pressure of an official appointment. Marketing the New Service It’s not enough to just have video meetings available—you have to let people know about it! Credit unions should tell their members all about their new video meeting options. They can send emails, post on social media, or even put up signs in branches. This helps you and others learn about how you can talk face-to-face with credit union staff from anywhere, all through video! Good to Know: Look out for special promotions or informational webinars that introduce how to use video banking. Joining these can sometimes give you helpful tips and maybe even perks for using the new service. Best Practices for Video Meeting Solutions in Banking Maintain High Security Standards When we talk about video meetings in banking, keeping things safe and private is super important. Banks need to make sure they use really strong security steps to keep your info safe during video chats. This means using tough-to-crack security stuff and keeping their systems updated all the time so no bad guys can sneak in. Good to Know: Always check for a little padlock icon in the address bar of your video meeting platform to ensure the connection is secure. Ensure High-Quality Video and Audio Nothing is worse than a video call where you can’t see or hear the other person well, right? That’s why banks should use really good cameras and microphones. This makes sure you can see and hear everything clearly, making the chat feel more like a real face-to-face meeting. Good to Know: If you’re preparing for a video meeting, finding a quiet spot and using headphones can really help make the conversation clearer. Schedule Flexibly People are busy, and everyone has different schedules. Banks can make it a lot easier by letting you choose times for video meetings that work best for you. This way, whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, you can find a time that fits your life without having to rearrange your whole day. Good to Know: Many banks now offer booking through an app or website, where you can see all available times and book your

Maximizing the Benefits of Video Meetings for Credit Unions

An image of a credit union member meeting with a credit union over video meeting. Better Branches flexible branch video can enable credit unions to have video meetings with members and visitors.

In today’s digital age, credit unions are uniquely positioned to enhance member engagement and satisfaction through video meetings. The Better Lobby Flexible Branch Video Module offers an innovative solution, allowing members to connect with credit union staff from anywhere. This capability is not just a convenience; it’s a game-changer in personalized banking services. Let’s explore how credit unions can fully leverage this technology to maximize its benefits, ensuring the link for video appointments is highly visible, effectively communicating the availability of video meetings, and maintaining sufficient staff for on-demand and scheduled video interactions. 1. Prominently Display the Video Meeting Link Ensuring that the link for members to book video appointments is highly visible is key. Place this link strategically on the main menu or the homepage of your website where it is easily accessible. This reduces friction and makes it effortless for members to schedule appointments, leading to increased engagement and satisfaction.     2. Inform Members About Video Meeting Options Communication is critical. Make it a point to inform members about the availability of video meetings while they are in the branch. This can be achieved through digital signage, brochures, or by training staff to notify members during regular interactions. Highlighting this option caters to those who prefer digital interactions and enhances convenience.     3. Staff Availability for On-Demand and Scheduled Video Meetings It is essential to ensure that there are dedicated staff available to handle both on-demand and scheduled video meetings. This means having trained personnel ready to connect with members at designated times, which helps in managing member expectations and delivering a seamless service experience. Credit Unions who utilize the video on-demand option and create an amazing member experience have staff dedicated to monitoring the on-demand virtual lobby. Branches that have low face-to-face traffic are ideal to monitor the virtual lobby, turning a low-traffic branch into a high-traffic virtual branch.   4. Utilize Helpful Information Related to this Appointment Topic Setting up helpful information related to the appointment topic helps members when they book the appointment and lets them know how they should be prepared for the video appointment. It gives both staff and members a clear understanding of what will be discussed, which helps in keeping the meeting concise and focused. You could also include information about the process (loan application, mortgage application, opening a new account, etc), this can be simple bullet points or a detailed plan, depending on the complexity of the topics to be covered.   5. Follow-Up Communications After a video meeting, sending a follow-up email can make a big difference. This email should thank the member for their time, summarize the discussion points, and outline the next steps. This not only reinforces the credit union’s commitment to member service but also ensures that both parties are on the same page moving forward. Key Takeaways about Video Meetings for Credit Unions Embracing video meetings is more than just adopting new technology; it’s about transforming the member experience. By making video meeting links easily accessible, informing members proactively about their meeting options, and ensuring staff availability, credit unions can provide a seamless and enriched service experience. This approach not only meets the evolving expectations of members but also sets the stage for deeper engagement and loyalty. As we continue to navigate a digital-first world, the integration of such technologies will be crucial in keeping credit unions at the forefront of customer-centric innovation.

Solarity CU Embraces an Omnichannel Strategy

Solarity Credit Union has transitioned its six traditional branches into teller-less consultative facilities featuring smart ATMs and video conferencing. The Yakima, WA-based credit union also uses remote video to serve members. Mina Worthington, President and CEO of Solarity, observes that “people would much rather meet with you via video than get in their car and have to drive to you and find parking, especially in metro areas.” Even with a deep commitment to digital banking, Solarity Credit Union remains a firm believer in branches. “Consumers want everything,” says Worthington. “They want the ‘Amazon experience’ online; they want you to have physical facilities as well….” Key Takeaway: This strategy of blending the digital with the physical is sometimes called “omnichannel.” Here at Better Branches Technology, we are at the forefront of providing leading edge software that supports credit union omnichannel visitor management strategies.

Video banking is becoming mainstream

AT&T introduced the Picturephone way back in 1964 at the New York World’s Fair, but video calling would not move into the mainstream until Skype came out in 2003. Video banking has also been around for many years, but it wasn’t until the pandemic hit that it became much more commonplace for Americans who suddenly became Zoom knowledgeable. Video banking opens up many possibilities for credit unions to: Deliver better member service Extend operating hours Shorten wait times Make more specialized skills remotely available Key Takeaway: Many members still value face to face contact and video banking steps up to add the convenience of digital face to face meetings that members need.

Video’s Impact on Member Satisfaction

In a recent PYMTS article, the research firm notes that 97 percent of FIs that offer video banking said their net promoter score (NPS) — a metric used to gauge customer satisfaction — was as good or better than their other channels, and 90 percent of video banking users said they would be willing to use video banking again. Why do so many people like video interactions? One reason is that they are comfortable with video meetings from the pandemic, but perhaps a bigger reason is that they like the level of personalization that video offers. The article goes on to state that a notable 97 percent of consumers said that high-quality customer service was somewhat or very important, meaning it ranked higher than low fees, fraud protection and mobile access. Video goes a long way in meeting consumer desires for personal service, especially when branches are closed. Key Takeaway: Our Flexible Branches Video Meetings module enables personalized and expert service at a distance while equipping your CU to handle both unscheduled video visitors and video appointments.

Branch Makeover Post-Pandemic

Despite the fact that Americans have learned to function without full branches for months during the pandemic, “customers still want to use branches,” says Robert Meara, a senior analyst at Celent. The evolution of branch usage post-COVID is essentially the same as before the pandemic closed lobbies: less transactions and more person-to-person advice. One key difference is that the person-to-person portion now may involve a video meeting. These video consultations can take two forms: 1) use of video-conferencing kiosks or conference rooms located inside branches so that members can talk to financial specialists not based in that particular branch, or 2) remote video from a member’s phone, laptop, tablet or PC. These video meetings can also occur in two ways: 1) unscheduled or 2) via an appointment. Key Takeaway: Our Flexible Branches Video Meetings module easily handles any combination of the above mentioned video scenarios – with no software to download – at a very affordable price point.

The Future of Video Banking

Greg McBride, chief financial analyst at Bankrate.com, says the shift from brick-and-mortar to digital banking channels will help spur more widespread adoption of video banking platforms. Many analysts agree with him and are convinced that video banking will become commonplace for many reasons, but one compelling reason is that some problems can simply be easier to resolve if two people can see each other and share screens. According to McBride, consumers who tend to prefer branches will have the greatest propensity to use video banking platforms, although users in digital- and self-service channels will also leverage video chat if/when they get stuck. Key Takeaway: Many observers predict that video will play an important role in many CUs’ channel delivery plans in the months and years ahead. Our real world experience has already shown that this is not an idle prediction – we have seen rapid adoption of our Flexible Branches video meeting module in 2021.

The Future of In-Person Banking

GoMoxie, a customer engagement software company, recently published a survey indicating that 62{91edff4ab0179c213d4d62ccb73735ad51d636906a6f58336791bd911b76df7b} of consumers prefer to use FIs that have a physical presence, rather than a digital-only presence. Many industry experts believe that the future of in-person banking will focus on: Appointments Value-based and higher level services, i.e., mortgages, loans, financial advice/investments Problem solving Key Takeaway: Without a doubt, the look, feel and purpose of your branches will be much different post-pandemic; and appointments – for both in-branch and video meetings – will play a key role in defining this in-person banking transformation.

Redefining Member Engagement: Banking Should be Personal

Photo of people meeting in a credit union. The people are shaking hands after a successful meeting with credit union staff helping their members with services. Better Lobby platform helps credit unions with member satisfaction.

In the realm of financial services, the personal touch remains a cornerstone of the member experience. As Garret Reich, Editorial Associate with The Financial Brand, aptly articulates, “Few topics are as intimate, intimidating, and important to people as money.” This sentiment underscores the enduring appeal of face-to-face interactions within credit union branches. In an era dominated by automated systems and impersonal transactions, the branch serves as a sanctuary for meaningful connections. Members cherish the opportunity to engage with a real, live human—a service representative who can address their financial concerns with empathy and expertise. The shift in terminology—from “teller” to “service rep”—is indicative of a broader transformation within the banking landscape. Branches are no longer mere transaction hubs; they are evolving into service centers, prioritizing higher-value interactions over routine transactions that are better suited for digital channels. As we navigate the post-pandemic landscape, the role of branches continues to evolve. Personal appointments, tailored to the member’s schedule and preferences, emerge as the preferred mode of engagement. This personalized approach not only enhances the member experience but also ensures that their needs are met with precision and care. Expanding Branch Capabilities with Better Lobby In response to the evolving demands of modern banking, credit unions are turning to innovative solutions to enhance their branch operations. Better Branches Technology recognizes this shift and is proud to introduce Better Lobby—an advanced software platform designed to revolutionize the way credit unions serve members in their branches. Better Lobby goes beyond traditional lobby management systems, offering a comprehensive suite of features tailored to meet the unique needs of credit unions. From appointment scheduling and member check-in to real-time staff tracking and performance analytics, Better Lobby empowers credit unions to deliver exceptional service while optimizing branch efficiency. One of the standout features of Better Lobby is its seamless integration with existing credit union systems, ensuring a smooth transition and minimal disruption to daily operations. Whether credit unions are looking to streamline their lobby management processes, improve member engagement, or maximize staff productivity, Better Lobby provides the tools needed to achieve these goals and more. By harnessing the power of Better Lobby, credit unions can transform their branches into dynamic hubs of member interaction, where personalized service and convenience are paramount. As the banking landscape continues to evolve, Better Branches Technology remains committed to empowering credit unions with cutting-edge solutions that drive success in the digital age.   Key Takeaway: Embrace the changing face of branch banking. By prioritizing personalized interactions and leveraging technology to streamline operations, credit unions can elevate the member experience and strengthen relationships in the digital age. Your branches will most likely look quite different post-pandemic, and increasingly the best way to serve members in the branch will be via personal appointments scheduled at the member’s convenience.

Path Forward Involves Blending Digital and Physical

2020 has been challenging for everyone, but what it has revealed is that members want a blend of physical and digital service from their credit union. Amit Aggarwal, Managing Director of Digital Solutions at J.D. Power, put it very succinctly in a recent Financial Brand article: “An effective path forward lies not in segmenting digital and physical customers, but in developing a holistic approach to integrating and expanding customer relationships across engagement channels — including those that have been temporarily de-emphasized.” Trust is key – members want to know that you can meet with them in the branch, at home or on the go. Key Takeaway: One of our biggest goals is delivering solutions that help CUs strike a balance between the personal interactions that are important to members, and the video and digital service that many members desire.

Revolutionizing Credit Union Branches: Post-COVID Branch Technology Trends

An image of a US 100 dollar bill that has been altered with a face mask, symbolizing the covid-19 pandemic and how financial institutions adapted to the pandemic.

In a recent insightful piece featured in the Financial Brand, James Caliendo, CEO at PWCampbell, emphasized the critical role of embracing fresh branch technology approaches for the future prosperity of financial institutions (FIs) post-pandemic. Caliendo advocated for the expansion of branch technology offerings to include innovative tools such as interactive kiosks, iPad integration, digital marketing screens, and video conferencing—a sentiment we wholeheartedly support. From the COVID-19 pandemic, credit unions have had to navigate uncertainties and adapt to the new environment. Technology like the lobby management solution of Better Lobby have enabled credit unions to adapt during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Credit unions are mission-first institutions that members and their local community rely on, include small business, the backbone of economies.  Empowering Small Businesses: The Credit Union Difference Credit unions are not just another financial institution—they are pillars of support for local communities and small businesses alike. Unlike traditional banks, credit unions operate as member-owned cooperatives, prioritizing the needs of their members and the communities they serve above profits. This unique structure enables credit unions to offer a range of tailored financial products and services specifically designed to support the growth and success of small businesses. 1. Access to Affordable Financing Credit unions understand the challenges that small businesses face when seeking financing. That’s why they offer competitive loan rates, flexible terms, and personalized lending solutions to help small businesses access the capital they need to thrive. Whether it’s a business loan, line of credit, or equipment financing, credit unions work closely with small business owners to find the right financial solution to meet their unique needs. 2. Personalized Relationship Banking One of the key advantages of banking with a credit union is the personalized service and relationship-focused approach they offer. Unlike large banks, credit unions take the time to get to know their members and understand their businesses. This personalized approach enables credit unions to provide tailored financial advice, support, and guidance to small business owners, helping them make informed decisions and achieve their goals. 3. Business Support Services In addition to financial products and services, credit unions often offer a range of business support services to help small businesses succeed. From business checking accounts and merchant services to payroll processing and cash management solutions, credit unions provide the tools and resources small businesses need to manage their finances more effectively and efficiently. 4. Community Impact Beyond their role in providing financial services, credit unions are deeply committed to supporting the communities they serve. By banking with a credit union, small businesses can feel confident knowing that their deposits are reinvested back into the local community through loans to other members and community development initiatives. This creates a cycle of support that strengthens the local economy and fosters growth and prosperity for all. Supporting Small Businesses, Building Stronger Communities In conclusion, credit unions play a vital role in supporting the growth and success of small businesses. With their focus on personalized service, competitive financing options, and commitment to community impact, credit unions are uniquely positioned to help small businesses thrive. By partnering with a credit union, small business owners can access the resources, support, and expertise they need to achieve their goals and build a brighter future for themselves and their communities. Meeting the Demands of Tomorrow with Better Lobby At Better Branches Technology, we have taken Caliendo’s recommendations to heart and have meticulously addressed each area with our Better Lobby modules, ensuring credit unions are equipped with cutting-edge solutions to thrive in the evolving banking landscape. 1. Interactive Kiosks & iPad Integration (Better Lobby Kiosk) Our Better Lobby Kiosk module redefines member engagement within credit union branches. By seamlessly integrating interactive kiosks and iPad functionalities, credit unions can offer members self-service options, empowering them to complete transactions, access information, and engage with personalized content at their own pace. From account inquiries to appointment scheduling, BL Kiosk 5 enhances branch efficiency while delivering a tailored experience that resonates with members. 2. Digital Marketing Screens (Better Lobby Wall Display) The Better Lobby Wall Display module transforms traditional branch environments into dynamic, interactive spaces. With eye-catching digital marketing screens, credit unions can captivate members’ attention with targeted messaging, promotional offers, and educational content. By leveraging the power of visual communication, BL Wall Display enhances brand visibility, drives product awareness, and fosters deeper connections with members, ultimately driving engagement and loyalty. 3. Video Conferencing (Better Lobby Flexible Branches Video) In today’s digital age, the ability to connect with members remotely is more important than ever. Our Better Lobby Flexible Branches Video module empowers credit unions to offer virtual banking services through seamless video conferencing capabilities. Whether members seek financial advice, assistance with complex transactions, or personalized consultations, BL Flexible Branches enables credit unions to deliver the same level of personalized service virtually as they do in-branch, fostering trust and convenience while expanding access to financial services. Key Takeaway: Enhancing the Member Experience through Technology While technology will never replace the value of face-to-face branch interactions, its role in enhancing the overall member experience cannot be overstated. By embracing innovative solutions like Better Lobby, credit unions can position themselves at the forefront of member-centric banking, driving satisfaction, loyalty, and long-term success in the post-pandemic era.

How Video Banking Can Bolster CUs During Difficult Times

In a recent BizTech article, web editor Keara Dowd stated that FIs that have deployed video banking have seen “direct returns on the investment. That is because video banking helps: increase consumer satisfaction create more intimate service levels increase the view of the CU as an innovative organization provide excellent business continuity Key Takeaway: Video banking is here and now and doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Our Flexible Branches video meetings solution supports unscheduled meeting and appointments, does not require any apps or software to be installed for visitors or staff, and is very affordable.

Branch Banking Remains Popular After COVID-19

In a recent poll conducted by Boston Consulting Group, just 3{91edff4ab0179c213d4d62ccb73735ad51d636906a6f58336791bd911b76df7b} of Americans said they would stop using branch banking altogether in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Without a doubt, this means that closing branches would not be advisable. Yet, CUs must seriously rethink how they plan to handle lobby visits post-pandemic. Better Lobby offers may ways to keep your lobbies open – both safely and efficiently: Appointments Online Queuing “Text me when I’m soon to be served” Key Takeaway: Your members expect and want access to face to face meetings. Fortunately there are affordable ways to meet their needs.

Flexible Branches Video Meetings Now Available

We just released our new Flexible Branches module that expands our Better Lobby Service Queue to enable members inside or outside a branch to be served by branch staff using video meetings. CU staff can be working remotely (i.e. home) or at a branch different from the visitor. Members have the option of connecting remotely through the credit union’s website or visiting a branch location that is video equipped. This timely module builds on our history of being the most innovative visitor management and appointments system in the CU marketplace. Key Takeaway: We think that Flexible Branches will help credit unions maintain branch service capacity even when access to branches is restricted by unexpected externally imposed changes and will significantly enhance your Business Recovery/Disaster Planning strategy.

Revolutionizing Member Service: The Rise of Video-Only Branches in Credit Unions

A photo of two people having a video meeting on a computer. Better Branches offers a video meeting module called Flexible Branches Video, allowing Credit Unions to talk to their members.

In a groundbreaking move that signals a paradigm shift in member engagement, BCU, under the leadership of Chief Retail Officer Carey Price and Chief Information Officer Jeff Johnson, is set to introduce video-only branches. In a recent CUBroadcast interview, Price and Johnson delved into the rationale behind this innovative approach, shedding light on its mechanics, challenges, objectives, and actionable insights for fellow credit unions. Why BCU switched to Video-Only The decision to embrace video as the primary medium for member interactions underscores BCU’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance service delivery. By bridging the gap between physical and digital channels, video-only branches promise to revolutionize the traditional banking experience, offering members unparalleled convenience and accessibility. So, how exactly will video-only branches function? Price and Johnson elucidated on the operational intricacies, detailing a seamless process wherein members can connect with expert staff remotely via high-definition video conferencing. This virtual interface not only facilitates personalized interactions but also transcends geographical limitations, empowering members to access specialized services regardless of their proximity to a physical branch. Risk and Reward of Video-Only Of course, pioneering such a transformative initiative hasn’t been without its challenges. Price and Johnson candidly discussed the hurdles encountered along the way, from technological integration to staff training. However, their unwavering dedication to enhancing member experience has propelled BCU to surmount these obstacles, paving the way for a new era of member-centric banking. In outlining the goals for their video-only branches, Price and Johnson emphasized a dual focus on member satisfaction and operational efficiency. By leveraging video technology to streamline service delivery, BCU aims to optimize staff utilization, reduce branch costs, and ultimately elevate the overall banking experience for its members.\ Should Credit Unions make the switch to Video-Only? For credit unions contemplating a similar leap into the realm of video banking, Price and Johnson offer invaluable advice gleaned from their own journey. Emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and stakeholder buy-in, they underscored the need for a cohesive vision that aligns with the credit union’s overarching objectives. Moreover, they highlighted the significance of investing in robust technological infrastructure and comprehensive staff training to ensure seamless implementation and sustained success. While video-only branches may represent a bold departure from traditional banking models, they embody the spirit of innovation and adaptation that defines the credit union movement. As credit unions across the industry increasingly recognize the transformative potential of video technology, the stage is set for a renaissance in member service, where personalized engagement knows no bounds. Key Takeaway: The advent of Better Lobby’s Video Meeting Queue Module (VMQ) heralds a new era in member service, extending the reach of credit union branches beyond physical boundaries. By leveraging VMQ, credit unions can seamlessly connect members with expert staff via video conferencing, fostering personalized interactions and optimizing operational efficiency.