Tina Giorgio: Faster payments is a drum you’ll frequently hear me beat and I have made it something of a personal mission, to ensure that the voices and concerns of community bankers are front and center as industry stakeholders work to improve the U.S. payments system.

Tina Giorgio: As we move into the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs, and I move into a series of discussions on U.S. faster payments efforts, I am reminded of a quote from the great one, Wayne Gretzky. His now-famous quote has been used over and over—“Skate to where the puck is going, not where it has been.” When I think about faster payments, that couldn’t be more true.

Tina Giorgio: I attended my very first ICBA Community Banking LIVE® convention in San Antonio. During my banking career, I’ve attended many large conferences, but I must say that ICBA LIVE now tops my list. I have never seen so many engaged bankers and vendors in one place and was truly moved by the commitment, dedication and passion for our industry that was on display.

Tina Giorgio: In my former role as a community banker, I always found it helpful to create visual aids to clarify complex relationships and concepts. In the example below, you can see how a bank’s payments strategy initiatives can be compartmentalized based on whether you are expanding an existing channel or innovating through new channels.

Tina Giorgio: In the six months that I’ve been president and CEO of ICBA Bancard, a recurring question I keep hearing from community bankers is, “How do I develop a payments strategy that will best position my financial institution for the future?” As a former community banker, I absolutely understand this concern.