Depending on the approach taken to achieve multi-channel integration, Celent believes that banks can expect to achieve between 10 percent and 25 percent yearly cost savings in the areas of IT and operations.

In a new report, , Celent analyzes the various types of multi-channel integration projects followed by banks in North America and Europe, examining three major strategies: single-channel, incremental best-of-breed, and enterprise-level. To address these initiatives, banks consider middleware and enterprise platforms葉he two major technology options謡hich are broken down further into a "buy versus build" approach.

Although much has been written about the potential benefits of multi-channel integration, little attention has been paid to the strategies that will support this evolving technology area. In this report, Celent draws conclusions about the strategy path taken by North American and European banks to address multi-channel integration initiatives. Banks in Europe are placing a greater emphasis on integration of the various legacy systems and integration of these legacy systems to channels. North American banks, in contrast, have worked toward improving operational efficiency first by engaging in business-line discussions, focusing on channel-specific needs.

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The report also contains a case study on HDFC Bank in India. The study highlights the diversity of multichannel projects across regions and details the bank痴 well-thought methodology, which has led to a unified architecture. HDFC痴 strategy can set the example for other banks implementing a multi-channel integration environment.

This 30-page report includes 10 figures and five tables. A

of Celent Communications' Retail Banking research service can download the report electronically by clicking on the icon to the left. Non-members should contact info@celent.com for more information.