Bank of America Corp. has won some small-business customers by adding a social networking element to its Web site, according to a case study published Monday by Aite Group LLC.
The Boston market research company said that B of A's Web site features a user forum and articles and stories written for and by small-business owners. They can visit the site for advice or to network.
"The bank has revealed that feedback has been very strong and the site is considered a success," wrote Christine Barry, the research director who wrote the report.
The social networking service complements the Charlotte company's banking products for small businesses; it is often described as a leader in the small-business market.
"Bank of America remains the only bank currently offering electronic invoice presentment and payment to its small-business customers," Ms. Barry wrote. It "also maintains an early-mover advantage with online payroll."
