Can you tell us about your role in the team as a senior consultant?
Karine Diouf : Our core banking system – SAB – is implemented in various types of banks and financial institutions such as HSBC, BNP, BCPCE, CDC etc… . As a senior consultant, my role is to support clients in the implementation and deployment of migration projects or regulatory updates to their core banking systems.
What does the process look like in practice?
Karine Diouf : Imagine a bank wants to change its information system (IS) for cost or technical evolution reasons. First up, they issue a request for proposals (RFP). Several providers respond, presenting their solutions, aiming to find the best system that meets the company’s specifications. This initial phase is called pre-sales. If the bank chooses our SAB software and the sale is finalized, I step in to start the scoping phase.
That stage begins with a workshop where we (the consultants) present our solution. The client then explains their current operations in areas like payment systems, credit, account management, customer reference data, and regulatory compliance. Together, we identify gaps between their needs and our software. The goal is to configure our standard solution to best meet the client’s needs or to develop specific customizations if necessary. Once this work is done, we deliver the solution to the client.
Next comes configuration and unit testing. We ensure everything works correctly before demonstrating it to the client. The client then takes over the solution and conducts acceptance testing, verifying it meets their daily operational needs.
Finally, we go live, transitioning the client from their old system to the new SAB system. We remain available to help overcome any difficulties or resolve any bugs that may arise, depending on how well the client has adapted to the solution. That’s when my mission concludes.
Can you share an example of a current project you’re working on?
Karine Diouf : At the moment, I’m working on deploying the FICOBA3 and FICOM2 regulatory updates for all SBS clients using the SAB core banking system. They were initiated by the French Directorate General of Public Finances (DGFIP) and the Overseas Issuing Institute (IEOM), aiming to modernize data collection for banks.
During the kickoff meetings, we explain the main regulatory changes. We then present the solution developed by SBS to meet these requirements and outline the steps: solution installation, configuration monitoring, and testing. Although similar to other projects, this process focuses on a specific functionality.
What do you enjoy most about your job as a senior consultant?
Karine Diouf : What I love most is starting a project from scratch and delivering a turnkey solution to the client. I enjoy participating in all stages, from scoping to production. Being involved from beginning to end ensures a better understanding of the project and greater client satisfaction. However, sometimes the person handling the scoping doesn’t do the configuration or unit testing, which can complicate project coherence and understanding.
Personally, I prefer being engaged from A to Z. For example, in a project for BPCE, I was involved from scoping to production. This allowed me to support the client better, because I was familiar with the project’s decisions and developments. This approach helps avoid continuity issues and complex context handovers.
What are the main challenges of your work?
Karine Diouf : Generally, the role of a consultant is to find technological solutions tailored to clients so they benefit from reliable and secure information systems. The challenges lie in adapting to rapid technological changes, managing cybersecurity risks, and complying with increased regulations.
Of all the projects you’ve worked on, which one has been the most exciting?
Karine Diouf : My favorite project was with HSBC. Upon my arrival, I was assigned to a module I wasn’t familiar with, which was a significant challenge. Fortunately, I was supported by experts, including a highly experienced colleague who knew the module inside out. During the scoping phase, I took extensive notes, which helped me learn a lot about the client’s operations – essential for preparing the configuration phase.
The project was important in terms of workload and because it was our first collaboration with HSBC, a major client. Successfully completing it was crucial for making a good impression and potentially attracting other high-profile clients.
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