IBT Enterprises

Idea Studio

Welcome to IBT’s Idea Studio – your hub for the latest innovations, market research and other insightful resources to help you accelerate growth and drive measurable results. The Idea Studio is updated frequently so be sure to check back regularly for new content.

Market Research

Market Pulse Surveys

Financial Services Executives Keen on Building, Being and Offering Green Services
Environmentalism, global warming and green activities have never been more topical. With increased focus on climate change and the impact of business on the environment, "Green" initiatives are becoming more common, and financial institutions are on board with the movement. There is also increasing recognition that environmental build and business practices are not only the right thing to do but also the smart thing to do. This study offers insights on perceptions, attitudes and plans already in place by financial institutions to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact as part of their design and build activities.

U.S. Consumers Still Seek A Face-to-Face Experience for Retail Banking
When it comes to financial services the “human touch” still matters to a great number of consumers. According to IBT’s Market Pulse survey, released in March 2006, 50% of those surveyed prefer to bank face-to-face. Yet in many instances, the personal touch is missing, resulting in a lack of loyalty beyond the hassle of switching institutions. In fact 30% of the respondents said that their relationship with their financial institution is most similar to their relationship with the post office. This report examines just how satisfied consumers are with their financial services provider and identifies opportunities for financial institutions to strengthen and deepen their relationships with consumers.

Bank Branching Remains Supreme
Although the Internet and new technology make it easy and convenient for consumers to conduct their banking without ever visiting their financial institution, they continue to patronize their local branch. The findings of this Market Pulse Survey show that average consumers go into their primary branch 2.4 times a month and that 86% of all consumers visit their branch at least once a month. Completed in August 2004, this research highlights the design and operational factors that please and annoy banking customers while visiting a branch, providing insights about channel delivery and customer service features that most influence the overall perceptions of the consumer.

White Papers

Opening Your Branch to Latinos: Understanding How to Earn Trust and Gain Acceptance
The Latino community is the fastest growing segment of the U.S. population and is a massive untapped market for financial services with 56% of Latinos currently without a banking relationship.
As financial institutions develop plans to attract and service this market, there are several unique attributes that need to be understood in order to gain acceptance and earn the trust of the Latino community. This white paper discusses the historical perceptions and concerns many Latinos have about financial institutions, and ways to address those concerns.

Adopting “Design Forward”: More Than a Pretty Look
For many consumers, the branch is synonymous with the financial institution – the branch environment is a direct reflection of a financial institution’s values, commitment to service and a three dimensional billboard of their products and services. Design plays a critical role in utilizing the branch effectively as a communication and marketing tool. This white paper details one credit union’s adoption of innovative design to create a destination branch that emphasizes member service, while promoting a wide array of products and services.