Introduction

Even in digitally advanced banks, Merchant Trade and Non-Trade Outward transactions remain a pain point. While core banking systems are robust and customer channels are modernized, these operational workflows still struggle with handoffs, approvals, and compliance delays.

This article dives into the real bottlenecks in this process—and how a workflow system can help fix them without reinventing your core.

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The Hidden Friction Points

1. Scattered Communication Channels

Requests come from branches, RMs, and FR counters—but move through legal, FI, and treasury via email or chat. This decentralization creates:

• Delays due to lost or missed messages

• No consistent audit trail

• Inconsistent formats and approvals

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2. Siloed Approvals & Checks

Each team (L&C, FI, Treasury) checks only part of the process. Without a unified view:

• Makers re-send data repeatedly

• Authorizers get partial context

• SLAs are often breached quietly

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3. Dependency on Individuals

When key people are on leave or exit, their inboxes and histories vanish. This puts compliance, continuity, and customer service at risk.

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4. Lack of SLA Enforcement & Escalations

Without structured tracking:

• There’s no visibility on what’s delayed

• Escalations are manual (if at all)

• Turnaround times are unpredictable

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How a Workflow System Can Help

A purpose-built workflow platform doesn’t replace your core system—it bridges the gaps between teams.

Here’s how:

Centralized Request Handling

All requests enter through a structured form, with required documents and transaction details upfront. This:

• Reduces back-and-forth

• Ensures data completeness

• Enables better tracking

Automated Task Routing

Tasks are auto-assigned to the right team (L&C, FI, Treasury, Ops) based on business logic, with role-based access.

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Built-in SLA Clocks & Escalation Paths

Each handoff has a defined SLA. If it’s breached, the system can:

• Send reminders to owners

• Escalate to supervisors

• Flag delays in dashboards

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Live Dashboards & Audit Trails

Stakeholders can monitor:

• Pending requests by function

• Time taken by each department

• Historical actions for audit

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Integration with Core Banking System

Once approvals are complete, the workflow system can:

• Push transaction data to Flexcube/Temenos

• Trigger payment processing

• Generate receipts

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Final Thoughts

Merchant Trade and Non-Trade Outward flows aren’t broken—they’re just fragmented. A modern workflow engine brings them under one roof, adds visibility, and ensures accountability across teams. 

We fixed it for KBZ Bank without overhauling the entire system. We just need to stitch the gaps between them more intelligently.

Let’s fix what’s slowing you down. Contact us today.

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