Throughout 2008 Deutsche Bank replaced its former systems with BCS Integrity from BCS, an account substantiation solution that acts as an early warning system through early identification of high risk balances, subsequently eliminating risks that could have resulted in lost revenue.

Deutsche Bank is now using Integrity as its central platform for the automated aggregation and reporting of consolidated global data. Greater efficiency is achieved by BCS Integrity's ability to interface with, and aggregate across, different general ledgers and systems. The Excel upload feature has particularly helped speed up the roll out process. Browser based, Integrity imports data from over 60 different feeds and more than ten general ledgers. It loads and processes 83 different account lines per second.

Integrity provides transparency and audit trails over the end-to-end account sign-off process. The account ownership tools highlight what has and what has not been done, so there can be no ambiguity over the account status or the person accountable. It provides a controlled route for users, managers and financial directors to highlight concerns and generate accurate reporting. Deutsche Bank has instant access to balances and P&L exposure, enabling management to quickly address any high risk issues and make decisions based on timely, accurate information.

BCS Integrity also only provides each region with the relevant, confined data using the local terminology. The monthly timetable determines when to accept data using the local sign-off deadlines.

Finextra verdict: In light of current economical challenges with increased regulator, shareholder and government scrutiny, Deutsche Bank has taken a big step to demonstrating control over its financial situation, and ultimately the bank's operational health.