Now
that social media have become a major tool for marketers, it would seem that
consumers are starting to organise themselves in return, comparing notes in
order to source the best terms of service available. Launched today, a new website called mybanktracker.com illustrates this trend, providing an online
venue where users can exchange current information about as well as their own
personal experience with United States? banks.
Combining
site-furnished information with user generated content (UGC), the new offering
functions as a tool for comparing and contrasting banking terms, rates and
services. The raw data provided is updated
in real time, and put into perspective by explanatory notes that purport to
translate fragmented and sometimes obscure investment terminologies into "basic English". Registered users can post their own
anecdotes, comments and recommendations, bringing a human touch to a sector
that can be dry and off-putting.
Up-to-the-minute bank rates through email and SMS are also on offer.
The
user interface was developed with clarity in mind, so that industry facts and
figures, user interaction and advertising by financial services providers can
be viewed side by side. In this, the
visual aspect of the platform aims to be in accordance with its purpose, as
described by Alex
Matjanec from My Bank Tracker?s media and communications department, who
explains that, "MyBankTracker.com realized that there was a need for an
online banking services information destination that allowed users to
comparative shop for a service that was best for them while leveraging the
knowledge and experience of the millions of existing banking customers".
New features are scheduled to be added in the coming months, including mortgages, credit cards, and rate
alert systems.