Remittance system aimed at low-volume users.

The Standard Register Co., Dayton, Ohio, is launching a remittance processing system that officials said promises to improve customer service and reduce processing fees.

The system - DP35 RPS - is designed for on-site processing of checks and other payments, such as remittance stubs.

According to Mark Vose, product marketing manager, the system targets organizations that have been unable to automate the payment process because the low volume of incoming payments they receive doesn't justify the expense of an automated system.

Small community banks that issue their own credit cards, cable television companies, and utilities often fall into this category, said Mr. Vose. These organizations must process payments manually or outsource processing to third-party service providers.

Help for the Little Guy

While most automated processing systems on the market are designed to handle 400 to 500 daily payments, said Mr. Vose, the DP35 RPS enables companies with as little as 100 incoming payments a day to do their own, in-house processing.

Part of the system consists of the DP35 document transport, made by Unisys Corp., which feeds, reads, encodes, and endorses documents. The transport is controlled by a Windows-based personal computer and software developed by Standard Register.

One of the benefits of the system, said Mr. Vose, is that it enables branch offices to improve customer service. Branches are able to do their own remittance processing, he explained, rather than having to rely on a distant central processing site.

"By processing checks locally, organizations can speed up transaction processing and reduce bank fees," he said. "Plus, customers can make payments in the neighborhoods where they receive service, reducing mail and check float time."

The system is also a good way for small community banks to get into retail lockbox for a small investment, said Mr. Vose. Banks can process payments for small retail stores and other organizations in the area, he said. They can also use the system to automate mortgage and lending areas.

The system is currently being tested by the Tillamook (Ore.) People's Utility District' and is being made widely available, said Mr. Vose.

The full system, including hardware, software, installation, and on-site training, costs $22,000 to $25,000, he said.

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