"Our goal at BB&T is to make the banking experience as easy and efficient as possible," said Electronic Delivery Channels Manager Barbara Duck. "Through this advanced technology, clients can not only apply for retail checking and savings accounts through BBT.com, but also receive instant approval and fund accounts in about 10 minutes."

Using instant online application, most new and existing BB&T clients can open multiple accounts, receive immediate approval decisions, and transfer funds into the new account from both BB&T and other checking accounts immediately.

"Constructing this application in-house allowed us to employ the best practices of the electronic age to design a banking tool specifically for the online consumer," said Paal Kaperdal, BB&T's eBusiness manager. "Proficient users of the online channel use sites and applications that are easy, fast, convenient and attractive."

BB&T is in the top tier of financial institutions offering fully automated online account opening. The technology already is having an impact on generating new business, Duck said.

"During our initial testing phase, nearly 65 percent of our online applications have been submitted by clients who were not previous BB&T account holders," she said. "Overall, it's clear to us that we now have many more clients taking advantage of this new technology."

BB&T's new online offering has also generated high marks from industry observers such as Change Sciences Group, a research and consulting firm that helps banks improve their Web sites.

"Based on our latest benchmarks from second quarter 2006, BB&T ranks among the top five banks nationally for the ease and convenience it offers people looking to open an account online," said Steve Ellis, a partner at Change Sciences Group.