Therefore, Susan's advice to other banks undergoing a core system replacement is to put extra emphasis on the people factor and ensure competent project and account management. 'A conversion of an existing bank needs big, dedicated teams consisting of the best people the bank can find. And they have to be there from the beginning all the way to the end.' This issue is particularly topical in countries where 'things are not very disciplined'. It is, thus, imperative 'to be double-disciplined in terms of methodology, project management tools and so on'. Being realistic about timelines and budgets is also important.
