Open Bank began in 2005 as a California state-chartered bank headquartered in Los Angeles. After rebranding in 2010, the bank established a new vision focused on relationship banking, serving the unique needs of its communities and business partners with a dynamic and experienced management team.

This commitment to customer service and community involvement requires a technology foundation that’s stable and forward-looking. However, the bank was experiencing limitations with its previous core provider. A mandatory migration to a new, less established core system was approaching, and investment and support for the existing core system were starting to slow. This slowdown in advancement and support created a risk of falling behind in the rapidly changing banking industry.

Recognizing the need for change, Open Bank began an extensive due diligence process in 2023, evaluating several top providers. The bank was looking for a core with capabilities that could grow with it: a reliable, stable platform that wouldn’t force it to roll the dice on unproven technology. It also needed to enhance the capabilities of its human resources by utilizing technology to increase operational efficiency.

The bank chose to partner with FIS, converting to the FIS® HORIZON core in 2024. Having used FIS solutions in the past, Open Bank was familiar with the company’s commitment to client support. The decision was driven by the reliability of the HORIZON platform and the strength of its ancillary products, including advanced internet banking and mobile banking capabilities.

Implementing new solutions has been smooth. The internal launch of the online account opening platform was particularly successful, with 40% of employees signing up in the first month and praising the easy, self-explanatory process.

The FIS partnership allows Open Bank to not only adopt new solutions, but also help shape its future, providing valuable feedback as an early adopter of new technologies like targeted engagement. With knowledgeable support from FIS, the bank is empowered to use its core system efficiently and effectively to drive its strategic goals.