The first step of this evolution is an electronic catalog that contains information about the banks' location, hours of operation, product information and links to the community. Creation of a transaction site is the final step in the evolution. A transaction site allows bank customers to monitor their accounts, transfer balances and pay bills on-line. NFR Communications also assists banks to establish and maintain Web sites. Web sites are driven by customer demand, Bengtson said.
Snowbirds are a big group of users.
Retirees keep track of finances while spending the winter in the Sun Belt. We see a lot of hits coming from Florida and Arizona. Because customer demand is high and the cost to develop Web sites relatively low, community banks can afford to create a Web presence. Some community banks are spending even less for simple Web sites. Small banks are investing for the next millennium.