SHAZAM and ASI Offer Real-Time ATM Interface Solutions For Community Financial Institutions

Des Moines, Iowa (PRWEB) September 15, 2005 -- The SHAZAM Network, Johnston, Iowa and Automated Systems, Inc. (ASI), Lincoln, Neb., have announced the completion of a project that will bring affordable, real-time EFT solutions to community financial institutions. In the past, some community financial institutions were not able to offer real-time transaction processing due to the high cost of purchasing and maintaining the hardware and software necessary to support these functions. Now, financial institutions wanting to move from batch-EFT processing to a real-time processing environment have a cost-effective solution available to them. "Real-time transaction processing offers financial institutions an opportunity to gain cost efficiencies, maximize savings and improve processes, ultimately resulting in better service to their customers," says Mike Hollinger, CEO, The Shazam Network.

SHAZAM and ASI have worked together to minimize the hardware and software interface requirements for financial institutions to process in a real-time environment. The unique configuration of hardware and telecommunications developed by SHAZAM and ASI make it more cost-effective for community based financial institutions to get into real-time EFT processing.

For nearly 30 years, SHAZAM, a member-owned and controlled EFT network, has been providing community financial institutions with cost-effective universal access to the electronic payments industry. Now, in partnership with ASI, they are continuing to level the playing field. By eliminating the need for financial institutions to purchase expensive in-house servers, switching from batch EFT processing to real-time processing is now an affordable reality for community financial institutions. Housing the ASI transaction servers on the SHAZAM network has significantly reduced the initial set up costs and certification fees normally associated with switching to a real-time environment.

About SHAZAM

The SHAZAM network was founded in 1976 by community financial institutions wanting a voice in the delivery of electronic convenience to their customers. The network currently supports more than 10,000 merchants in 42 states and more than 1,600 financial institutions. SHAZAM holds endorsements from 12 industry trade organizations. With field offices in Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas and Wisconsin, SHAZAM is one of the largest shared EFT networks in the Midwest.

About ASI

Automated Systems, Inc. has worked with community banks since 1981 to provide the technological solutions necessary to address management's needs. ASI develops and supports software to help its customers operate efficiently and effectively. ASI also provides network support and consultative services to enable clients to maximize the latest technologies. With offices in Lincoln, NE, Carmel, IN and Kansas City, KS, ASI is well-positioned to supply full-service technology solutions to its clients. Dedication to providing customers with the highest level of satisfaction drives ASI employees to continually strive for better technology solutions. This dedication results in custom solutions, personalized service, and a range of support options to meet customers' needs.

ASI corporate headquarters are at 1201 Libra Drive., Lincoln, Nebraska 68512, (402) 420-6000 or 800/279-7312. For more information about the Insite Banking System, visit www.insitebanking.com.

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