Company Overview
SMH Global is a premier IT consultancy and service provider specializing in core banking system upgrades, quality assurance, and comprehensive testing solutions. Our mission is to empower financial institutions with advanced technology and seamless system transitions to enhance their operational efficiency and security.
Client Background
Bank Albilad, a leading financial institution, operated on the R-16 version of its core banking system based on the Temenos Application Framework Classic (TAFC). This desktop-based system was increasingly viewed as outdated, slow, and lacking the advanced features necessary for a competitive edge in the modern banking environment. To address these challenges, Bank Albilad upgraded to the web-based R-21 version, built on the Temenos Application Framework Java (TAFJ).
Project Objectives
The primary objectives of the project were:
- Upgrade the core banking system from R-16 to R-21.
- Enhance system performance and user experience.
- Improve security features, including the integration of Active Directory Authentication.
- Ensure comprehensive testing and quality assurance to guarantee system reliability.
Scope of Work
SMH Global’s scope of work included:
Provision of T-24 Modules
- Ensuring the deployment and integration of all necessary T-24 modules within the R-21 system.
Quality Assurance
- Conducting thorough quality assurance processes to ensure the new system’s stability and performance
User Acceptance Testing
- Extensive UAT was executed to ensure the system meets business requirements and is ready for production. The UAT team oversaw testing, created and executed test cases, and managed defects.
System Integration Testing
- System integration testing (SIT) of core banking with other banking interfaces involved verifying that all the interfaces work together seamlessly and fulfill the requirements of end-to-end banking operations.
- Internet Banking (IB) & Business Internet Banking (BIB)
- Mobile Banking (MB)
- BPM Auto lease
- Interactive Voice Response (IVR)
- Enjaz Mobile Banking Remittance & KIOSK Remittance
- Teller Cash Recycler
- Point of Sale
Third-Party Services Testing
- Testing third-party services and APIs with T24 R21 core banking involved verifying the integration and functionality of external systems and APIs with the T24 R21 core banking platform.
- Sadad Payment (Non-Government Transactions)
- MOI Sadad Payment (Government Transactions)
- Mobily Pay (API Testing)
Consultancy Services
Providing expert guidance and support throughout the upgrade process.
Solution Implementation
Addressing specific client requirements and ensuring the seamless transition of custom features, such as the printing functionality and Main Line Inquiry for large file uploads.
Challenges and Solutions
Printing Functionality
Challenge:
The R-16 desktop version included a critical printing button feature that needed to be replicated in the R-21 web-based version.
Solution:
SMH Global successfully implemented the printing functionality in the R-21 web interface, ensuring continuity for users accustomed to this feature.
Mainline Inquiry for report export
Challenge:
The R-21 version imposed a 3-minute limit for report export, which needs to be increased for the large files used by Bank Albilad.
Solution:
We implemented a Main Line Inquiry feature that provided an alternative export path, accommodating the complete download of large files without time constraints.
Active Directory Authentication
Challenge:
The R-16 system lacked Active Directory Authentication, posing security concerns.
Solution:
The R-21 upgrade included Active Directory Authentication, significantly enhancing system security and user management.
Addressing Pain Points
Obsolescence of R-16:
The upgrade addressed R-16’s outdated technology, bringing Bank Albilad up to date with modern, efficient banking technology.
Performance Issues:
Transitioning to the web-based R-21 version resolved performance issues, providing a faster and more responsive system.
Lack of Cloud Integration:
The R-21 system’s cloud-based infrastructure improved scalability, flexibility, and security.
Outcome
SMH Global successfully upgraded Bank Albilad’s core banking system from R-16 to R-21. The new platform is modern, secure, and efficient, enabling Bank Albilad to enhance its competitive position in the market. The seamless transition ensured minimal operational disruption and laid a robust foundation for future technological advancements.
Conclusion
SMH Global’s expertise and commitment were instrumental in successfully upgrading Bank Albilad’s core banking system. Our comprehensive approach, encompassing consultancy, quality assurance, and custom solution implementation, ensured a smooth transition to the R-21 version, significantly improving operational efficiency and security. This project underscores our capability to deliver complex IT solutions tailored to the unique needs of financial institutions.
