Ensuring Continuity for the Community They Serve
A bank's business continuity isn't just a formal phrase; it has a deep meaning that touches everyone in the surrounding community. Local and regional banks have strong commitments to the communities they serve. They operate as the center of the local economy and are part of the daily lives of residents and small businesses. Any change in how these banks operate means a change in the community, and change brings uncertainty. Their customers look to them as a stable institution, and they need to be assured that their money will be protected no matter what happens.
Challenge: Urgent Need for Remediation Leaves Community Bank Without a Branch to Operate From
An Agility customer who operates regional bank branches in Northern and Central California recently acquired a new market. During their inspections, they noticed mold and asbestos in one location that would require extensive remodeling and remediation. Immediate attention was required to ensure employees' and customers' safety, so continuing operations inside the bank as repairs were made was out of the question. Our client needed a way to maintain continuity for a branch and its customers that they were newly responsible for.
Solution: Mobile Bank Branch Recovery
After discussing their recovery options, they requested a ReadyFinancial mobile bank branch be deployed to their location. That same day, we deployed the required assets to the existing branch parking lot to restore normal operations. Each mobile branch is a complete recovery unit with teller counters, cash drawers, check-writing stations, a safe, and tables and chairs for meetings. We normally provide Internet and communications in our mobile units. However, with their building still operational, we connected their existing utilities to the mobile branch unit and avoided any extra costs.
Results: Instant Solution for Prolonged Recovery
By recovering at their existing location, they provided customers with reliable service without the added challenges of moving the branch and employees and rerouting customers to a new location. The client was originally scheduled to operate out of a mobile branch recovery unit for two weeks, but repairs to the building prolonged their stay. The solutions we offer are flexible, and their recovery was extended for an additional two and a half months.
Communities rely on local bank and credit union branches to be open in times of disaster, especially to obtain cash when cellular networks are down and they're not able to use credit cards to purchase needed resources.
The Challenge : Burst Pipes, Remodeling, Mountain Location
A county bank branch that was slated for a remodel experienced burst pipes, resulting in flooding and a delay in the remodeling schedule. The branch was in the mountains, presenting challenges for the recovery and mobile recovery unit placement.
The Solution: Mobile Branch Recovery with ReadyFinancial+
After receiving a call from the member, Agility leapt into action to deliver a mobile recovery unit , restroom trailer, generator, and technology equipment. To navigate the recovery’s unique topography, Agility adjusted details like providing ADA switchback ramping for accessibility to the trailer. Two generators were delivered to provide redundancy.
Results
The bank branch was back up and running within one week of the event with the mobile recovery unit, providing essential services to their customers. As the member began receiving time and cost estimates for repairs and remodeling, they realized they needed a long-term, more viable solution. Agility made it easy for this member to transition to a more permanent structure, increasing comfort for staff and customers alike. We worked with the bank to form a solution that would prevent any sinkage, since it was placed in a potentially sinkable area. We provided enough base for the new unit’s weight, and the general contractor worked with Agility to construct a wooden ramp to ensure ADA access. The unit remained onsite for a year, showcasing the versatility that Agility brings to the table to better serve our members and provide comfort in times of need.