Information technology (IT) provides leverage for breakthroughs in the banking industry in particular and the entire economy in general. Modernising the banking industry is an indispensable requirement in the current context. Banking Vietnam Conference and Expo 2012 delves into the core issue: “Technology transformation towards effective banking governance and high quality services.” The event is jointly organised by the Information Technology Department of Banking (ITDB), State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) and International Data Group (IDG Vietnam).
Vietnam Business Forum is granted an exclusive interview with Mr Le Thanh Tam, General Director of IDG ASEAN Group, a co-organiser, on non-cash payments and new features of the conference after 15 annual versions. Thu Ha and Thu Huyen report.
Could you tell us why IDG and ITDB took technology transformation and quality improvement as the chief theme for Banking Vietnam 2012?
The underlying theme is based on the current evolution of the banking market. The year 2012 plays a very important role in the 5-year plan from 2011 to 2015 to reach Vietnam’s banking strategy growth objectives. Besides, the Project on Non-cash Payment Promotion aims to diversify payment services, stimulate electronic payment and non-cash payment, create dramatic development in payment practices, and contribute to the operating efficiency of the banking system and State administration.
Since 2009, many banks in Vietnam have invested very much in technological infrastructure, diversified banking products and services, improved service quality, and built multi-channel service systems. Therefore, in order to confirm the importance of banking IT application and development to achieve the above objectives, Banking Vietnam 2012 will continue to be held under the overriding theme of “Technology transformation towards effective banking governance and high quality services for the banking sector.”
What are the advantages and difficulties in IT application in the banking sector in Vietnam?
In a picture of all industries, the role of CIO (chief information officer) is the clearest in the banking sector. Most banks in Vietnam have now invested considerably for IT infrastructure development. This is a very favourable factor for them to continue applying technologies to their business activities. It is obvious that technology serves an important role in connecting bank operations. But, good technology requires good people and good processes. To apply technologies effectively, banks themselves have to complete their business processes. Translating technologies into operating and business objectives is now a challenge for the banking industry.
This year marks the 15th version of the Banking Vietnam since it was first held in 2002. How do you assess the impacts and effects of Banking Vietnam events on the banking industry?
The primary objective of Banking Vietnam conferences and exhibitions is to create a useful forum for exchanging information and seeking proposals for development orientations and solutions to comprehensive banking modernisation. In the past 15 versions, Banking Vietnam has achieved this goal. Many bank leaders attend Banking Vietnam to access updated market information, as well as explore technological solutions being deployed in the banking industry now.
Another positive impact of Banking Vietnam is the formation of a community for banking workers. During the event, banks have the chance to meet and exchange with State Bank leaders, and seek partners in technological infrastructure development or professional consultancy. With a high demand for coordination among high technology stakeholders, a forum like Banking Vietnam is useful for interested parties to search for and select partners.
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