They Helped Us See the Bigger Picture
How Vitex Helped Commencement Bank Navigate a Core System Transformation
When we began evaluating our core system contract, we were almost certain we’d stick with our incumbent provider. Changing cores is a massive undertaking, and despite some frustrations, staying put seemed like the easiest option.
But we knew we had to do our due diligence. We formed a core system task force—including our CEO—to explore potential vendors. That’s how we found Vitex, and it quickly became clear that they were the right partner to help us navigate this critical decision.
VITEX WAS STRATEGIC, EXPERIENCED AND UNDERSTOOD OUR NEEDS.
We looked at several firms, including one we had worked with in the past, but Vitex stood out from the start. Unlike other firms that followed rigid, one-size-fits-all approaches, Vitex had a flexible, hybrid model that fit our needs.
Their team had deep industry experience—including former employees from our core provider—which gave them invaluable insight into the inner workings of our system. That knowledge, combined with their nimble approach, made the decision to work with them easy.
They weren’t just another firm trying to push a standard playbook—they adapted to how we work. And when it came to pricing, they were more competitive than any other firm we considered.
NO CHALLENGE WAS TOO BIG, NO MATTER HOW UNEXPECTED.
Once we made the decision to switch our core, it was not without some uncertainties. Our timeline was ambitious, leaving us a bit behind the eight ball.
However, Vitex proved to be a steady ally throughout these uncertainties. They stepped in to negotiate a short-term contract extension with the bank’s current core, ensuring we could seamlessly continue operations while waiting for our conversion schedule with the new core. What could have been a major stress point was completely mitigated thanks to Vitex.
EXPERIENCED PROJECT MANAGEMENT KEPT THINGS ON TRACK.
While Vitex did a phenomenal job on the core contract side, it wasn’t necessarily a given that we’d use them for the project management side – as a bank, we do our due diligence. But Jen Devine, our Vitex project lead, had experience with both our old and new cores, which was a huge advantage.
Jen was an incredible communicator. She kept us focused on our “north point,” ensuring we stayed on track while also being flexible when things shifted. Even though almost all of it was done remotely due to the pandemic, the transition felt seamless.
WE FINALLY FOUND A CORE PROVIDER THAT FITS.
We had assumed we would stay with our existing core because switching to another provider seemed too difficult. However, Vitex helped us see the bigger picture and ultimately make the right move.
Switching cores has been a game-changer for Commencement Bank. Our new core prioritizes community banks, and their responsiveness has been night and day compared to our previous provider. Their customer service is top notch, we get answers fast and implementation has been much quicker. In addition, their approach to customer relationships mirrors how we treat our own clients.
WE FOUND TRUE PARTNERS WHO UNDERSTAND THE WAY WE WORK.
At Commencement Bank, our culture is built around going the extra mile for our customers. When we’re the customer, we expect the same treatment. With Vitex, that’s exactly what we got. The Vitex team was a true partner who had our backs through the project.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
The partnership with Vitex marked a turning point in how we approach technology and vendor relationships. By choosing a firm that truly understood our needs and offered solutions that were right for our business, we were able to navigate a major transition with confidence and achieve a result that positions the bank for continued growth.