The ATMs are specifically designed for high transaction usage by NCR Corporation (NCR), the global leader in consumer transaction technologies. They accept cash deposits with real time credit capability, recycle the deposited cash, dispense cash, do cheque deposits, and offer a broad range of other services, such as bill payment, funds transfer, mobile phone top-up and mini-statements.

"Working with Bytes to roll out the NCR solution gives Barclays Bank of Botswana a significant competitive advantage as the only bank in Botswana offering multi-functional services through these intelligent ATMs," said Malebogo Sebusang, Head of Channels at Barclays Bank of Botswana. "This investment in cutting edge technology positions Barclays to substantially grow its market share as consumers demand more convenience. It also affirms our goal to become the 'Go-To' bank in Botswana. For customers, transactions such as cash deposits will be effected in real-time, giving them 24/7 ability to transact, and to experience secure cash handling. The new ATMs are optimized for simple cash deposit transactions, allowing our employees in the branches to spend more time with customers on complex banking transactions."

The new ATMs deliver a variety of functions, aiming at making the everyday consumer transactions easier. As a result, Barclays Bank of Botswana's customers will have access to branch transactions beyond traditional banking hours and at the time of their convenience, while enjoying an unprecedented banking experience that could also be used to attract new customers. Substantial adjustments had to be made to the ATMs for the Botswana market. Currency note templates had to be developed and then tested rigorously for correct note detection and rejection. The Project Management Office at Bytes worked extensively with NCR subject matter experts and Barclays Bank of Botswana to ensure maximum accuracy.

"For Barclays, this represents an opportunity to leverage a whole new level of convenience - never before experienced in Botswana - to attract new customers," said Alan Anderson, Business Development Director at Bytes Managed Solutions. "From a brand perception perspective, the Bank will rightly be seen as an innovator and technology adopter in an environment where this remains unusual and far from the norm. We have been a longstanding strategic partner of Barclays Bank of Botswana and the installation of the ATMs paves the way for other NCR solutions to be introduced to the Bank, particularly in branch transformation, where kiosks and teller cash recyclers add even more convenience for customers."

Proof of concept and demonstration of the ATM began midway through 2013. The bank's representatives were able to see the ATM in action at last year's ATMIA in Cape Town and at a recent NCR Branch Transformation event.