Geldmaat: Connection network ATMs
Geldmaat, a Dutch company that builds, manages, and maintains ATMs, wants to open its network to other banks in the Netherlands. Boer & Croon was asked to connect Volksbank (with the SNS and ASN brands) to the Geldmaat infrastructure, with the requirement that this connection serve as a blueprint for future banks wishing to access the Geldmaat network. This extension was essential as cash still plays a crucial role in society.
Our analysis
The Geldmaat network, set up by ABN AMRO, ING, and Rabobank, had limitations that made connecting new banks complex. The infrastructure was in place, but there were still obstacles to further expansion and accessibility of the services Geldmaat wanted to deliver. Our analysis revealed the need for a digital transformation to a more flexible and future-proof model where banks could be easily connected via the Internet. This would not only meet current demand but also pave the way for future expansions and integrations.
Approach
Geldmaat and Boer & Croon have taken an innovative approach by deploying the 'socket' model. This socket contains all of Geldmaat's technology and provides a universal interface for new banks to connect quickly and efficiently. For Volksbank, we developed an interface that connects to Geldmaat's socket via the internet.
This project involved several key steps and milestones:
- Further development of the socket and interface: We created a flexible and scalable infrastructure that forms the technical basis for connecting new banks. This included specific adaptations for Volksbank and other future banks to ensure seamless integration.
- Project and change management: With a dedicated project leader and PMO function from Boer & Croon, we ensured the effective management of the project and changes within the organisations involved. This way, we ensured that all steps were implemented on schedule and within the set deadlines.
- Testing and implementation phase: Extensive tests were carried out before the connection went live to ensure its reliability and security, which was crucial to ensuring service continuity.
- Scale-up and blueprint creation: We created detailed documentation and processes to simplify future connections. This blueprint is a standard model for connecting new banks to the Geldmaat network.
Result
We have developed an interface for all services Geldmaat can provide to new banks. On 1 July 2024, with its SNS and ASN brands, Volksbank was the first joining bank to be successfully connected to the Geldmaat network. SNS and ASN customers can now withdraw and deposit money at Geldmaat ATMs.
This connection marks an essential milestone for Geldmaat, which is now ready to welcome more banks, thanks partly to the flexible and future-proof infrastructure we helped set up. This expansion is particularly relevant given the upcoming legislation requiring banks with more than 50,000 customers to offer deposit facilities to their customers. The innovative approach and revamped IT infrastructure enable Geldmaat to connect these banks properly and efficiently.
The principal from Geldmaat, Simon de Witte, project manager Mimi Jurhill, senior manager of Finance & Technology at Boer & Croon and project support Jolijn Pruijmboom, consultant of Finance & Technology at Boer & Croon, look back on a successful implementation.
Johan Traa, partner Finance & Technology at Boer & Croon: ‘Boer & Croon has once again proven that its expertise in project management and digital transformation adds value to our customers and the wider financial sector.’
Reference to the article Geldmaat on LinkedIn.
