CU*Answers, the Grand Rapids, Michigan-based core data processing CUSO, will move to a growing trend to develop mobile software first, then work up to a larger desktop version for its online banking products.

In the past, using the graceful degradation strategy where desktop design was already in place, developers wanted to take advantage of new technology without excluding users to provide the best experience possible as the degradation to accommodate all types of smaller device mobile setups were developed. Even with some shortcomings, each device or site would remain functional.

Progressive enhancement design arose as a new way to develop mobile software. Combined with Responsive design where additional styling can be used for size increases in the viewport, you put the best functionality on the mobile platform, with minimal screen real estate and enhanced processing power with third party plug-ins. This gives an amazing experience that looks great and functions quickly and easily. As needs arise, this mobile platform can be ‘enhanced’ for larger platforms with fewer constraints.

“CU*Answers has always looked to improved technology to develop software that meets their credit unions’ and members’ needs,” said Barb Cooper, Mobile Technologies Group account executive. “This is one more way we can invest our owners’ funds into software that keeps small and large credit unions alike on the forefront.”