Beta trials of ICL's Windows NT-based software under way at First Union ATMs

LA JOLLA, California -- Beta trials of Windows NT software provided by ICL, the global IT services company, are under way at First Union National Bank. The new software enables First Union to deliver both Web-enabled and standard banking transaction services directly to its network of Fujitsu Series 7000ï¿½ Advanced Platform ATMs. As the Internet comes into play with increasing frequency, financial institutions are expanding their service offerings from traditional ATM networks to new Web-based channels. "Our research findings clearly demonstrate the value of adding Web-based services to our ATMs," said Jim Spicer, vice president of technology for First Union's ATM Solutions Group. "By providing a common look and feel across all channels, the NT platform reinforces our brand image while adding a level of comfort and familiarity to less experienced online customers." First Union has implemented the NT-based software on several ATMs at the First Union Customer Information Center where 10,000 First Union employees work. ATMs in this location account for 1,500 to 2,000 transactions per ATM per week, providing an aggressive volume test. "Since no host changes were required for installation, the impact on our resources has been minimal," said Spicer. "With continued positive results, we plan to deploy the NT platform on our entire network of Fujitsu ATMs."