BECU enters the App Store

Okay... so BECU developed a mobile banking app for iOS and Android devices back in 2010, yet somehow I am suppose to come up with recommendations on how they could improve upon their existing offerings.  First, it's essential to analyze BECU's current mobile app - BECU Mobile Banking.

Acquiring BECU's app quite painless, yet a secure process.  Members simply log into BECU's website for online banking, then follow three easy steps to setup the mobile application.  First, agree to the terms and services.  Second, verify your telephone number and the system will send you a confirmation text message with a verification code to enter on the web page.  Once that's all set, download the mobile app via Apple's App Store or Google's Android Marketplace and login using the same credentials for BECU's online banking site.

The app allows members to access their accounts, transfer funds, pay bills, and find locations of the nearest neighborhood financial center or ATM.  Pretty much the same basic functionality of BECU's online banking site, but with the user interface catered toward touchscreen devices.  As a member, I found their iPhone app to be a much more convient method of accessing my account compared to logging to their website and fiddling around with icons the size of a pea.  The mobile app icons are big, easier to read and tap on, while navigation is more intuitive.  Sound all fine and dandy, so what else could they improve upon?

Hmm...for a credit union that prides itself on being "more than just the money" their mobile app enables you to do nothing else, but manage your money.  It'd be cool to receive updates or notifications on BECU sponsored community events.  Even better to be able to proactively engage the community and offer donations to credible organizations that BECU is involved with, such as Children's Hospital or United Way.  If that's too much to ask for, then how about we gear it back towards finances with a budget calculator that enables members to learn more effective ways to save and invest for the future.