As smartphones provide the uptick that make anytime-anywhere banking access possible, a new generation of bank technology professionals are working on mobile features designed to make the customer's banking experience more convenient and effective.
For Crystal Lui, one of Standard Chartered Bank's group technology and operations (GTO) management trainees, close involvement with nascent technologies is an uplifting experience.
"Working on app technology is fabulous," says Lui, adding that she has had the opportunity to dive into various project stages, from collecting user requirements, development to testing.
"I was able to be involved in the entire Breeze Good Life app technology process which has accelerated my learning," says Lui. "Not many graduates have the chance to work on different stages of such an interesting project. And I consider myself very fortunate to be able to do so."
Standard Chartered Bank's suite of Breeze mobile banking and lifestyle apps allows users to review properties and evaluate financing.
Ben Fung, also a Standard Chartered Bank GTO management trainee, agrees. "The experience of working on Breeze Good Life app technology shed light on how I can succeed in the banking industry," he says. "In a dynamic environment where we constantly face new challenges, our team is constantly innovating to deliver customer service innovations."
Fung says that because of the support he receives from fellow trainees and mentors, he has the freedom to be creative and not simply follow pre-set rules.
"Being part of this team is rewarding because I am working on a product which can be used by anyone who has an iPhone," he says. "When I see my friends using any of the Breeze apps, I am proud to say I am part of a team that made it happen."
Tiffany Tiu, also a GTO management trainee at the bank, says that in addition to working on technology and leadership projects, management trainees are also tasked with leading corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects.
"CSR participation reinforces our knowledge of our community's needs, as well as the opportunity to give back to the communities where we live and work," says Tiu, who was involved in helping to plan and manage an employee volunteering project in Hong Kong's New Territories to plant and harvest rice to raise funds.
As a GTO management trainee, Yuki Chan says Standard Chartered Bank's CSR initiatives provide opportunities to learn co-ordination and project management skills.
"Taking part has helped me to expand my network beyond my department, which is very important for career development," says Chan.
