It wasn't too long ago that having automated bank account management was considered more 'nice to have' than necessity. Markets were plum, cash was flowing freely and corporate treasuries could seemingly easily handle the management of the accounts manually. The perception of the cost-to-benefit ratio on an automated bank management and bank fee analysis system seemed much more "nice to have" than necessity.

Then the financial crisis hit, and in its aftermath came a greater focus on treasuries and the more strategic role they now play within the corporation as they've expanded their influence across the enterprise to deliver more value added services. This, while also dealing with the fact that these same corporate treasuries have seen their staffs trimmed dramatically over the last ten years, leaving fewer people to perform even more functions.

Within a few short years, how you manage your banking relationships has now come center stage and plays a critical role in holding down costs, focusing staff more effectively and reducing bottom line impact. What were once viewed as mundane tasks every corporate had to deal with are now viewed as a place where corporate treasuries can show shareholders direct benefits through cost savings and more effective management.