The ubiquitous automated teller machines have become the preferred communication channel for customers and vital touch points for banks.
A recent survey by ATM manufacturer NCR revealed that nearly 90 per cent of the ATM users surveyed said they would prefer to use ATM to request information and to receive detailed communication on new products and services.
According to the survey, more than 50 per cent of bank customers preferred the ATM channel for communication or getting information on products and services.
Nearly 32 per cent of customers prefer their banks informing them about new products and services through the ATM rather than other forms of marketing.
Another 21 per cent said that they would prefer to take pre-approved, personalised offers directly from the ATM.
The pan-India research conducted for NCR by AC Nielson ORG-MARG covered 12 metros and mini metros with a sample size 2,676 ATM users.
The survey revealed other forms of marketing calls such as phone calls or in person (22 per cent), e-mails (3 per cent) and mailers & leaflets (12 per cent) having limited appeal for customers.
Another finding was that around 89 per cent of the people would use ATMs for deposit transactions if the customers perceptions about safety concerns or operational issues are effectively addressed. 23 per cent of customers demand better proof of deposit, 19 per cent stated that the current deposit facilities offered by the banks are not safe, said the survey.