Real Solutions. Proven Results.

Challenge:

In September 2024, a leading credit union experienced significant performance issues with its core banking system. Several Core API requests, including critical authentication and transaction services, were delayed by as much as 18-20 seconds—well beyond the acceptable threshold of under 2 seconds. This latency risked internal inefficiencies and had the potential to disrupt member-facing services.

Key issues identified included:

• High response times on API transactions
• Inefficient SQL queries, particularly within the Core API authentication process.
• Using numerous suboptimal API requests placed unnecessary strain on database and server memory, further exacerbating latency.

These challenges required a comprehensive review of technical and process-based inefficiencies to prevent long-term performance degradation.

Solution:

VPC was engaged to perform a detailed analysis of the credit union’s core systems, leveraging its deep expertise in Fiserv DNA optimization. The following steps were taken to resolve the latency issues:

1. Comprehensive Log and System Review:
   • VPC conducted an in-depth analysis of API service logs to identify performance bottlenecks. By reviewing the logs, VPC pinpointed underperforming areas, examined specific use cases with significant performance issues, and evaluated the current system design to identify areas for optimization.
2. SQL Optimization:
   • By reviewing Oracle AWR reports to identify performance bottlenecks. A problematic SQL query related to user authentication was identified as consuming significant database time. VPC provided guidance regarding suboptimal query execution paths and the most optimized query plan, reducing response times and ensuring efficient query execution.
3. API Transaction and Workflow Fixes:
   • VPC recommended restructuring the API request flow and handling transactions sequentially to prevent memory overload and ensure faster response times.
4. Custom Recommendations for Long-Term Stability:
   • VPC provided a long-term recommendation, including replacing inefficient system status checks with optimized Database Handshake Requests. This ensured critical system health checks were completed without adding unnecessary API traffic.

Results:

By implementing VPC’s solutions, the credit union experienced immediate and measurable improvements in core system performance:

• Reduced API Latency:
  Transaction response times were reduced from 18-20 seconds to under 2 seconds—well within the acceptable threshold.
• Optimized Resource Use:
  Memory and CPU usage stabilized, resulting in faster processing and fewer instances of system slowdown during peak hours.
• Enhanced Stability:
  By optimizing SQL query plans and restructuring API request handling, the core system is now equipped to handle increasing transaction volumes without performance degradation.

Key Takeaways:

• Proactive Core Optimization:
  VPC’s technical expertise in Fiserv DNA enables it to identify and resolve performance bottlenecks before they escalate into critical failures.
• Custom Technical Solutions:
  VPC tailors its recommendations to the specific architecture of financial institutions, ensuring long-term performance gains.
• Refined Guidance and Targeted Strategy:
  This solution offers a framework for addressing similar operational challenges tailored to each financial institution's unique environment. VPC provides expert insights and strategic guidance to help clients address specific issues as they arise, positioning us as a trusted partner in operational optimization.

Conclusion

By engaging VPC, the credit union successfully optimized its core system performance, swiftly addressing latency issues. The system is now equipped to handle future demands, highlighting the value of VPC’s proactive, tailored solutions for financial institutions looking to enhance operational efficiency and member satisfaction.

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Challenge

A leading credit union encountered significant delays and manual inefficiencies in its membership and account creation processes. On average, 30 to 100 accounts required daily setup, placing considerable demands on staff time and increasing the risk of human error. The institution sought a more efficient, secure, and scalable method to manage its high-volume account creation and funding processes.

Solution

VPC provided a structured approach to optimize the credit union’s API strategy, tailored to their DNA platform needs and operational goals. Our solution combined automated Core API integrations with robust data alignment to streamline workflow. The engagement was carried out in key phases, all grounded in our comprehensive expertise in DNA Integration Services:

• Discovery and Requirements Mapping
  VPC consultants conducted a deep-dive analysis to capture the credit union’s precise integration needs. This phase involved designing use cases and journey maps to address specific objectives in the account setup and loan processing workflows. We assessed the current architecture, identifying areas where API enhancements could increase operational efficiency and minimize redundant processes.
  
  
• API Strategy and Implementation
  Leveraging our API Consulting Services, we recommended a series of Core APIs and a process to facilitate automated membership account creation and funding.
  
  
• Integration Sequencing and Workflow Optimization: VPC designed a structured sequence of Core API calls to automate member lookup, new account setup, and funding transactions. This eliminated manual data entry steps, ensuring efficiency without compromising data accuracy.
  
  

Results

• Operational Efficiency: Setup time per account was reduced from 7 – 8 minutes to 30 milliseconds. With over 100 accounts opened daily, this streamlined account processing saves more than 11 hours daily for credit union staff.
  
  
• Enhanced Data Accuracy: Automated workflows decreased the likelihood of human error, aligning data inputs consistently across systems.
  
  
• Scalability and Futureproofing: By optimizing integration sequences and migrating from legacy processes to modern solutions, VPC ensured that the system could scale with growing transaction volumes and be adapted for future integrations.

Specialized DNA Integration Services Employed:

• API Consulting Services: Designed and executed API integrations tailored to business requirements, focusing on optimized workflows and enhanced member account opening processes.
  
  
• Interface Support: Integrated with key systems to streamline account-related operations, reducing manual intervention in high-frequency processes.
  
  
• Security and Compliance: Emphasized secure authorization practices, critical in financial operations to protect client data and ensure regulatory adherence.

Conclusion

VPC’s structured approach to API integration and data model alignment allowed this credit union to transition from a manual, error-prone process to an automated, scalable solution. The engagement illustrates VPC’s capability to deliver highly specialized DNA consulting services that address operational pain points and support digital transformation in financial institutions.

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