From passbooks to online portals, see how banking has evolved to fit our busy lives. Experience digital convenience at BDO SM City Bacolod.
Banking has transformed remarkably over the past few decades, and as a former banker, I’ve had the unique experience of watching it all unfold.
In the 80s, every transaction was recorded manually. Each deposit, withdrawal, and balance inquiry required physical documentation. Even quarterly interest was calculated individually, making the entire process time-intensive. Though the tools were simple, this era had a charm—it was personal, if a bit labor-intensive.
Fast forward to today, and banking has completely changed. Technology now shapes customer experiences, and the shift to extended hours and digital solutions has been a game-changer for busy people who need quick and easy access to financial services.
Here’s a closer look at this evolution and how digital tools today make banking convenient and accessible for those constantly on the go.
Banking in the 80s: Passbooks, Manual Machines, and Long Queues
In the 80s and 90s, banking was all about in-person visits. As a bookkeeper, I remember manually recording each client’s transactions. Passbooks were the norm, with every transaction meticulously documented in these little books that customers safeguarded.
Since everything was done by hand, each client’s balance and transaction history had to be accurate, demanding attention to detail.
Bank hours were limited, typically ending by 3 PM, leading to long queues and crowded lobbies. The personal connection with clients was strong, but the system wasn’t designed for today’s busy lifestyles.
Though personal, banking in that era demanded time and patience.
The Digital Transformation: Banking Evolves in the 2000’s
The 2000s brought a technological revolution that reshaped banking. Digital tools, including online platforms, ATMs, and mobile apps, began to replace traditional methods, granting customers greater control over their finances.
Online banking allows people to manage their money anytime, anywhere, making services like bill payments and fund transfers possible with just a few taps on the phone.
Banks also began meeting clients where they were, opening branches in malls and other accessible locations. Banking schedules also expanded; where hours were once limited to weekdays, mall branches often stay open until 7 PM and operate on weekends.
Adapting to Modern Demands: BDO SM City Bacolod
The shift from passbooks and paper transactions to digital tools and extended hours shows how banks meet modern demands. For instance, BDO SM City Bacolod combines traditional in-branch services, extended hours, and digital tools like online appointments and Service Assist Machines (SAM), creating a seamless and convenient banking experience.
So, the next time you’re at SM City Bacolod, check out BDO and experience the difference, whether stopping by after work or during an errand.
BDO SM City Bacolod is located at:
G/F South Wing Bldg., SM City Bacolod, Poblacion, Reclamation Area, Bacolod City
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Phone:
(034) 468-0139
(034) 468-0140
(034) 468-0265
(034) 468-0345
Fax: (034) 468-0139
Visit BDO Unibank’s website to learn more about BDO’s full range of industry-leading financial products and services.
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Oh I agree-banking has changed since the 1980’s. I received my first checking account then, and it was a MUST to record there transaction. Then if you messed up, you would have to pay the banker to run the math for you. I sure do love the Digital tools we have now! Online platforms, ATMs, and mobile apps. And mostly for the ease of transferring funds with in your bank to different accounts!
It’s crazy how much things have changed. I remember a time when ATMs weren’t even a thought in any of our minds, and we had to constantly balance our checkbooks.
Yes, agree with you. Banking indeed has come a long way. I entered the bank, I mean I was employed using all those bulky machines to record the clients’ transactions. Now, we only see computers helping bank personnel to complete the client’s transactions.
Banking has changed so much – and mostly for the better. I love that I can do everything on my computer instead of having to take time out to drive to the bank. I even deposit my checks with my phone.
Oh that is great. In the PH, we still have checks deposited in the bank. I hope we can go along that line in the future.
Wow. It’s so crazy how things changed with the fast-paced and ever changing technology. I’m sure things will look different in another 40 years.
I am looking forward to it – maybe banking without the physical bank and no need of currency
I remember my mom teaching me about balancing my checkbook when I opened my first bank account as a teenager in the late 90s and early 2000s. Within a couple of years I could do everything online, so I made that switch. It took my parents a bit longer to get on board and make the change to digital banking. My dad still keeps his checkbook to balance his accounts and verifies it with his online account. Things have definitely changed!
Certainly interesting to read through the history and changes. So many for the better for sure, but lots of complex issues to deal with.
Look how things got for the better, I wonder how high tech things will be in the future. One things for sure, banking definitely got more convenient and efficient for us users.
What an interesting post. We all know that the generation today is more technical and more innovative for easier access or to do task easily like this.
Ah yes – I remember the banking days back in the 1990s. Literally running to the bank with my passport and cheques before it closed. And boy if it was closed it was an absolute disaster. Weighing up the personal service vs convenience? I live in a rural area where I know my banker personally. It’s nice, but we still have the technology. I’m enjoying the balance of both.
So true that earlier banking was more personal though it was more labor intensive. But now it has become very convenient for employees and customers alike.
I so agree with this post. Banking has changed a lot and technology as well. It’s much easier and very convenient if you ask me, can you imagine what it would be like in the future. Everything is digital now and is expanding with new innovation tools every day!
As the one who introduced ATM switched (frommannATM of another bank) inthe Philippines, i feel proud of how online banking has progressed through the last 30 years!
great to know that.