That was the consensus of a number of computer software vendors and data processors that were interviewed by Credit Union Times.

The growth and change in data processing needs won't be brought on by new technology, but rather by the demands of credit unions, explained Bruce Bigsby, executive vice president of sales and marketing for BASIS Information Technologies in Atlanta.

"I expect to see a convergence of the types of products banks, S&Ls and credit unions offer," Bigsby predicted. "I see credit unions offering a broad platform of products and services. As a data processor I'm going to need to be able to support all of their needs."

A credit union might opt for online service to handle the heavy demand of EFTs while going in-house for point-of-sale support. A one-stop-shop is what Electronic Data Systems (EDS) in Plano, Texas, is striving to become, a company spokesman said. With more than a600 financials as clients, EDS offers both in-house and service bureau support.

If a credit union chooses and in–house system, 24-hour capability should be a consideration. Bill Raker, manager of marketing services for Control Data Credit Union Services in Campbell, Calif., expects EFT type services to explode, placing heavy demands on computer systems for around-the-clock service. "You'll need a system designed for non-stop operation."

Enter crash-proof or fault tolerant systems, as they are known today. Expect to see more, explained Mike O'Malley, corporate communications manager from UltraData Corp. in Pleasanton, Calif. While fault tolerant systems operate with their own backup computer to virtually eliminate downtime, the cost is high, O'Malley said. But the price is dropping."

Systems won't only be asked to shoulder a high number of transactions, but to also play a larger role in marketing and profit analysis. EDS plans to unveil a system that will measure profitability of credit unions a spokesman said. "Because of deregulation and credit unions watching their CAMEL ratings, profitability will be a real issue."

New technology plays a role in marketing too agreed Chuck Smith, National product manager for Citicorp Information Resources in Troy, Mich., and Control Data's Raker. Accessing all information on a member via the credit union's mainframe will be the only way to effectively cross sell, Raker said. Smith noted that we are seeing some banks putting more emphasis on telemarketing. "I think telemarketing will be hot for all financials in five years. We fully intend to play a role."

But hold onto your T-square said Dudley Karstensen, director of sales and marketing for Link Computer Corp. in Atlanta, who warns that technology may be moving forward in systems development and enhancements, but lacking in security precautions.

"I think we are going to see people get burned bad..with unauthorized transfers, for example. I think you'll see smart cards, voice fingerprints or literally fingerprints replace passwords."

There will always be arguments of the type of technology used for data processing. Do you go in-house or online? If you go in-house, should you purchase an open system that allows for future enhancements? And, don't forget the option for facilities management, where the data processor sets up shop right at the credit union where it runs the system.

Arthur Gillis, president of Computer Based Solutions Inc. in New Orleans, a well-known automation consultant in the financial industry, offered some advice that should help credit unions considering their data processing options.

"Today, in-house systems and service bureaus are more alike than they have ever been. No one can tell me that they can do one thing that the other can't. They are exactly the same in capabilities," Gillis said.

"The elitist concept that everyone should have the most complex wizardry is wrong. There are some cases where financials can be overwhelmed with sophistication. After all of the science, analysis, wisdom and study, ultimately there is the freedom of choice. It comes down to what does the credit union like."