Dialog banking comes to Boston.

Dialog-style banking has been introduced in the Boston area by TD Banknorth, which is headquartered in Portland, Maine.

Under dialog-style banking, the bank representative works side-by-side with the customer during transactions--and not on the opposite side of a counter. Dialog banking has popped up previously in other areas of the country.

The bank introduced the concept in Boston at a new branch that it opened downtown in the autumn.

The new branch has two dialog towers featuring four transaction stations at which bank representatives assist customers with their banking needs. Teller cash drawers are eliminated, and the transaction process is simplified and made secure through the use of an automated cash dispenser at each dialog towers, which also accepts customer deposits. Customers are able to watch their account information on-screen.

Under dialog-style banking, the customer is greeted at the entrance and then customer representatives work with the customer side-by-side on transactions, theoretically educating them on products and services.

The concept is intended to reduce transaction and wait time.

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