Bank of Ireland online: Compare and contrast

The Bank of Ireland's "365 Online" service is an online banking service which is in full operation throughout the year (hence '365') and which is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. This article looks at some of the features of this service and compares and contrasts the 356 Online service to the leading services from other banks such as Barclays, HSBC and Natwest.

Features of 365 online

Introduction 365 Online, or "365online" as we may also call it, operates from a secure website located 365online.com. The service which includes being able to bank from anywhere online or on the telephone is only for private customers and not business customers. However, this service could also have benefited businesses tremendously. Easy log in The log in process appears to be easy - you only need your 365 login name and user PIN, along with the usual personal details required for security checks. The registration process appears to be simple and links are posted around the site for easy navigation to the registration forms. Services The online 365 banking services allow you to do a range of things with your money from anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection. You can do all the usual things such as view your balances and transactions, make bill payments, send money to any registered bank account, set up new beneficiaries for domestic or international payments and some other useful services such as being able to top up your mobile phone and customise statements to show information that you want to see. Website The website appears to be easy to navigate but lacks aesthetic value which may render it quite boring to use over a long period of time.

Contrast to other leading online banking portals

Services 365 Online appears to provide the same services as other leading banks such as Barclays, HSBC and Natwest. It is also possible to apply for further banking products and services (such as bonds, or savings accounts) through the website which brings it in line with other leading banks in terms of convenience and ease of use. The website is the main area that the 365online banking is let down by. Other websites such as Barclays provide a clear and simple layout with isimple design so that you know instantly where to log in, where to view statements and how to get help. 365 is a little different in that the design is not simple and you have to look quite hard to make sure that you are getting the right information and the right sections.