Sberbank is Russia's dominant retail bank and is maintaining its leadership position by investing in the opening of an experimental laboratory - a branch of the future, designed to showcase the next generation of banking services. The new branch format is the first step towards a large-scale transformation, being undertaken by Sberbank to enhance the customer experience through the use of the latest technology.

Among the technology supporting the "Branch of the Future" is the SmartVista solution developed by BPC. SmartVista's innovative MediaExtension provides multi-channel on-line customer support via the Internet and self-service devices with the use of modern media technologies. SmartVista MediaExtesnion delivers fully interactive services through any ATM or self-service terminal - transforming the terminal into a "mini-branch".

BPC's solution accomplishes flexible integration of remote delivery channels, such as self-service devices and Internet-banking systems, with call-centers, providing customers with audio and audio visual connections to call center operators. Based on modern Flash technologies, SmartVista MediaExtension is quick and easy to install and does not require any additional media programs.

SmartVista MediaExtension significantly increases the value and use of remote delivery channels, enhancing customer service and loyalty and reducing the Bank's operating costs.

"With the opening of our flagship Branch of the Future in Moscow, we have started a unique programme designed to deliver superior service to our customers through transforming our branch network," said Eugeny Kublanovsky, Head of Projects, IT Development Department, Sberbank of Russia. "BPC's commitment to the project has been a critical element in optimizing the Bank's delivery capability across multiple channels."

"Our cooperation with Sberbank spans a decade. The Bank's deployment of SmartVista MediaExtension for this critical project is testimony to our ability to deliver forward looking solutions to a "Top 50" bank," commented Vasily Grigoriev, CEO BPC Banking Technologies. "We are delighted to be part of the Bank's future transformation."