A Comparative Study on Mobile Banking Services in Bangladesh: Customers Perception and Satisfaction in Bangladesh

 A Comparative Study on Mobile Banking Services in Bangladesh: Customer Perception and Satisfaction in Bangladesh


Course Title: Management of Banks and Financial Institutions

Course Code: PAGS 324

Submitted To:

Tanjil Ahmed

Assistant Professor

Dept. of Public Administration and Governance Studies

Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University

Trishal, Mymensingh

Submitted By:

Group C

Session: 2020-21

3rd Year, 2nd Semester

Dept. of Public Administration and Governance Studies


Contents

Serial No.

Name of the Chapters

Page No

01.

Abstract

1

02.

Introduction

2

03.

Aims and objectives

3

04.

Literature Review

4

05.

Methodology

6

06.

Findings of the study

7

07.

Discussion

27

08.

Challenges

30

09.

Recommendations

32

10.

Conclusion

32

11.

References

33

 

Abstract

This study explores Bangladesh's mobile banking market with an emphasis on consumer views and satisfaction levels. Mobile banking is a key component in the banking industry's digital transition, providing users with unmatched ease and accessibility. The introduction of mobile banking offers Bangladesh, where a sizable section of the populace is still underbanked or unbanked, a special chance to increase financial inclusion and reach unexplored markets. In order to investigate the variables impacting consumer acceptance and satisfaction with mobile banking, the study uses a comparative methodology. The research intends to provide useful insights into the dynamics of mobile banking in Bangladesh by analyzing the preferences, choices, and considerations of young people, who are the key demographic pushing the adoption of mobile banking. The study aims to assess customer satisfaction levels and the efficacy of mobile banking services provided by different providers using a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. The study also looks into the chances and difficulties banks have when trying to promote mobile banking services, especially in rural areas with weak financial infrastructure. The study's key findings could help financial institutions and policymakers establish strategies that improve customer happiness, encourage adoption, and advance the growth of the banking industry in Bangladesh as a whole. The study's ultimate goal is to advance innovation and advancement in Bangladesh's banking sector by adding to the current conversation about mobile banking services.

Keywords: Mobile banking, Financial inclusion, Adoption, Preferences, Digital transition.

1.    Introduction

Mobile banking has become a game-changer, transforming the banking industry by offering unprecedented accessibility and convenience. Millions in Bangladesh, a nation experiencing a mobile phone boom, can now leverage their devices for financial transactions. This surge in mobile banking use presents both exciting opportunities and significant challenges for the Bangladeshi banking sector (Akhtaruzzaman & -Ul-Islam, 2017).

One of the most impactful contributions of mobile banking is its ability to boost financial inclusion. By reaching those previously excluded from traditional banking channels, mobile banking empowers a wider segment of the population. This translates to more people being able to conduct safe and convenient banking transactions. However, as mobile banking adoption soars, banks need to shift their focus towards keeping their customers happy and fostering long-term loyalty (Sabah, 2023).

Understanding the factors influencing customer satisfaction with mobile banking services is crucial for developing effective marketing strategies and cultivating enduring customer relationships. This study delves into the opinions and satisfaction levels of young Bangladeshi consumers regarding mobile banking. By analyzing the preferences, choices, and considerations of this key demographic driving mobile banking adoption, the research aims to offer valuable insights into the dynamics of Bangladesh's mobile banking landscape (Nusrat Jahan, 2022).

Currently, mobile banking in Bangladesh facilitates a wide range of services accessible via mobile devices, including financial transfers, investments, bill payments, and account management. The Bangladesh Bank has played a pivotal role in fostering the growth and advancement of mobile banking by authorizing transactions and promoting market expansion. Despite the early success and rapid growth of prominent mobile banking platforms like bKash and Dutch Bangla Bank Limited (DBBL), challenges remain in expanding mobile banking penetration rates and reaching the vast, unbanked population residing in rural areas (Sagib, 2014).

Bangladesh's banking sector holds immense potential for further expansion and innovation, but only a fraction of the population currently utilizes mobile banking services. To fully capitalize on this potential, banks must address the factors impacting customer adoption of mobile banking. This study aims to pinpoint these crucial variables to empower mobile financial institutions (MFIs) to enhance their services, raise public awareness about mobile banking, and contribute to the overall growth of Bangladesh's banking industry (AMIN, 2021).

In essence, this comparative analysis of mobile banking services in Bangladesh seeks to illuminate customer perceptions and satisfaction levels. The goal is to utilize this knowledge to inform future strategies that effectively address the evolving needs and expectations of mobile banking customers. By examining the nuances of mobile banking usage and satisfaction, this research aims to spark innovation and propel the Bangladeshi banking sector towards a brighter future (Hossain, 2014).

2.    Aim and Objectives

This assignment wants to look deeply into mobile banking in Bangladesh. There are four main things it wants to do. First, it wants to find out what makes people think certain things about mobile banking. Second, it wants to know why people in Bangladesh like or don't like mobile banking. Third, it wants to see what makes it hard for people to use different mobile banking services. Finally, it wants to give ideas on how to make people happier with mobile banking and make it better in Bangladesh. This assignment wants to help people who work in mobile banking, the government, and tech companies. The goal is to make mobile banking better and help more people in Bangladesh use it.

The primary objectives are:

§  To identify factors affecting customer perception of mobile banking.

§  To find out the factors affecting Customer satisfaction with mobile banking in Bangladesh.

§  To investigate the challenges of using different mobile banking services in Bangladesh.

§  To recommend strategies to improve the mobile banking services in ensuring customer satisfaction in Bangladesh.

 3.    Literature Review

The survey done by Akter sought to evaluate user views and satisfaction with mobile banking services in Bangladesh. The study's primary goal was to better understand the elements that influence customer satisfaction, specifically in terms of service quality aspects such as security, user interface, and dependability. The study used a mixed-methodologies approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods, to gather data from mobile banking users in order to get insight into their perspectives and experiences. The study found substantial relationships between service quality parameters and customer satisfaction levels. However, the study's shortcomings were sample size limits and potential biases in self-reported data. Nonetheless, the study provided useful insights into Bangladesh's mobile banking market, including recommendations for improving service quality and increasing user happiness. Despite its focus on consumer views and happiness, the research did not explicitly address the comparative comparison of different mobile banking platforms or demographic groupings, which departs from the suggested assignment's objectives. (Akter, 2023).

Amin's study sought to investigate the association between mobile banking services and customer satisfaction in different demographic groups in Bangladesh. It aimed to determine how factors such as service prices and local issues influence consumer perceptions and satisfaction with mobile banking. The study discovered that delivering dependable, quick, and efficient service is critical to guaranteeing consumer satisfaction in the context of mobile banking. Despite the focus on service quality and its impact on happiness, there is still a lack of understanding about how customers perceive these aspects and how their views influence their total satisfaction. This gap emphasises the importance of conducting a comparison research in Bangladesh to evaluate user views and satisfaction across different platforms and demographic groupings. Such study may give significant information for targeted marketing, user-centric service design, and regulatory initiatives aimed at improving the mobile banking experience for all users in Bangladesh. (AMIN, 2021).

Parvin's assessment digs into worldwide patterns in mobile banking adoption, highlighting successful cooperation between banks and mobile carriers that have driven development in countries such as India, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka. These patterns reveal possible problems and possibilities for Bangladesh, including budgetary constraints and security concerns. Finnish research provides a more comprehensive framework for analysing mobile banking uptake, taking into account criteria such as relative benefit and compatibility. However, despite this global perspective, there is still a significant gap in understanding consumer perceptions and their impact on satisfaction in Bangladesh. While present research focuses on service quality, there is a need for comparison study into customer perceptions across platforms and demographics. Such information might guide targeted marketing and regulatory initiatives, therefore improving the mobile banking experience for all Bangladesh users. (Parvin, 2020).

The analysis identifies an increasing trend of mobile banking use in Bangladesh, fueled by reasons such as relative advantage and ease. However, obstacles such as ineffective marketing and security concerns continue to exist, emphasising the significance of specialised organisations in tackling them. Despite excellent insights from previous research, there is a significant vacuum in understanding generational disparities in mobile banking preferences, particularly among young users aged 15 to 34. To close this gap, future research might evaluate mobile banking services for this group based on factors such as usability, security, and speed. Understanding their individual expectations and behaviours will help to drive tailored marketing techniques, which are critical for increasing customer happiness and loyalty among young people in Bangladesh. The available research emphasises the necessity of knowing consumer perceptions and how they affect satisfaction in Bangladesh's diversified mobile banking market. While existing research focuses on service quality, there is a need for a comparison study that investigates customer impressions across platforms and demographics. Research on these areas can influence targeted marketing, user-centric service design, and regulatory initiatives to improve the mobile banking experience in Bangladesh. (Sagib, 2014).

While research explores mobile banking adoption and service quality in Bangladesh, a critical gap exists in understanding customer perceptions and their influence on satisfaction.  Current studies focus on service quality itself, but how users perceive these features (security, user interface, etc.) can significantly impact satisfaction. Bangladesh's diverse mobile banking landscape and growing young user base further necessitate a comparative study.  By investigating user perceptions and satisfaction across different platforms and demographics, this research can inform targeted marketing, user-centric service design, and regulations for a more inclusive and satisfying mobile banking experience in Bangladesh.

4.  Methodology

In order to provide a thorough grasp of its impact, our study on the adoption of mobile banking used a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques. In order to gather quantifiable data, comprehensive questionnaires encompassing several facets of mobile banking utilization and satisfaction were given to specialists, mobile bank employees, and clients. Both in-person interviews and questionnaires were used to collect data, providing a range of answers and quantitative insights into the usage trends of mobile banking.

Concurrently, we employed a qualitative methodology by scrutinizing pertinent literature, reports, and additional sources to acquire more profound understanding of the dynamics of mobile banking in Bangladesh. This qualitative study provided context, highlighting the benefits, drawbacks, and areas for future development in mobile banking.

With the help of our mixed-methods approach, which combined quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights from interviews and literature review, it was possible to conduct a thorough analysis of the adoption of mobile banking. This integration offered a comprehensive picture of Bangladesh's current mobile banking situation and its effects on financial services. An in-depth analysis of mobile banking usage and its effects on the banking industry was made possible by the combination of quantitative data and qualitative observations. 

Study Approach

Study Sample Design

Study Area

Respondents Criteria

Total Respondents

Quantitative

Survey

Mymengshing,

Trishal

Designation

Number

 

        110

User

100

Qualitative

Interview

Mymengshing,

Trishal

User

10

Table: Sampling

5.    Findings of the study

We distributed our survey on mobile banking services in Bangladesh to 150 people. We interviewed people who were actively using mobile banking services at the time of the study among them. We were able to learn more about the comparative analysis of the various mobile banking services available in the nation thanks to this methodology. Through a combination of survey results and in-person interviews, our goal was to get insight into the subtleties and preferences of Bangladeshi mobile banking consumers. We aimed to offer a thorough analysis of mobile banking services and their effects on Bangladesh's banking industry using this mixed-methods approach.

5.1. Demographic information about respondents

5.1.1. Gender of the respondents


Figure 1: Gender of the respondents (Field Survey, 2024)

Out of the 150 participants we questioned for our poll, 50.7% were women and 49.3% were men. This gender mix enabled us to include both male and female viewpoints in our study of mobile banking services in Bangladesh. We hoped to gain a thorough picture of mobile banking usage patterns and preferences across demographic groups by including varied voices.

5.1.2 Age range of the respondents


Figure 2: Age range of the respondents (Field Survey, 2024) 

In our survey, age distribution varied among participants. Below 18 years old accounted for 8%, while 18-25 years constituted 40%, showing a strong interest among young adults. Ages 26-35 represented 16.7%, 36-45 years comprised 14.7%, and 46-55 years accounted for 13.3%. Those aged 56 years and above constituted 7.3%. This diverse range allowed for insights into mobile banking usage across different age groups in Bangladesh.

5.1.3. Educational qualification of the respondents

 

Figure 3: Educational qualification of the respondents (Field Survey, 2024)

In our study on mobile banking services in Bangladesh, we examined the education levels of the 150 respondents. Among them, 14% had completed primary school education, while 27.3% had attended secondary school. A significant portion, 39.3%, had completed higher secondary education (college). Additionally, 14% held a bachelor's degree, and another 27.3% had attained a master's degree or above. These findings reflect a diverse educational background among participants, indicating a range of perspectives and experiences regarding mobile banking utilization.

5.1.4. Occupation 

Figure 4: Occupation (Field Survey, 2024) 

In our examination of mobile banking services in Bangladesh, we looked at the vocations of the 150 respondents. 14% of them were full-time employees, while 20% worked part-time. A considerable proportion, 37.3%, were involved in business operations. Furthermore, 11.3% classified as students, while 12.7% were unemployed. Additionally, 7% of respondents were day laborers. These findings highlight the participants' broad employment backgrounds, offering insight on the many viewpoints and experiences with mobile banking usage in Bangladesh.

5.1.5. Utilization


Figure 5: Utilization (Field Survey, 2024) 

In our survey of mobile banking services in Bangladesh, we inquired about the frequency of usage among the 150 respondents. The responses revealed that 24% utilized mobile banking services multiple times daily, indicating frequent usage. Additionally, 29.3% reported using these services once or twice a week, while 22% utilized them once or twice a month. A notable portion, 24.7%, stated that they used mobile banking occasionally but not regularly. These findings provide insights into the varying degrees of engagement with mobile banking services among individuals in Bangladesh.

5.1.6. Which platform is being used more

 

Figure 6: Platform (Field Survey, 2024)

We looked at the present preferences of 150 respondents in Bangladesh who participated in our survey on the use of mobile banking platforms. The findings showed that 32% of individuals prefer Nagad, whereas 9.3% of participants choose Bkash. Rocket was the most widely used option, as indicated by 52% of respondents. Moreover, a smaller subset of participants—2.7%—reported using U-Pay, whereas 4% chose Sure Cash. These results highlight Rocket as the top option among the questioned population and offer insights into the spread of mobile banking platform usage among individuals in Bangladesh.

5.2. Factors affecting customer perception of mobile banking.

5.2.1. User Interface and Ease of Navigation Satisfaction

Figure 7: User Interface and Ease of Navigation Satisfaction (Field Survey, 2024) 

Among the 150 respondents, 10% expressed being very dissatisfied, while 8% were dissatisfied. However, the majority, comprising 62.7%, remained neutral, with 16.7% reporting satisfaction, and 3.3% expressing very satisfied sentiments.

5.2.2. Security Measures Opinion

Figure 8: Security Measures Opinion (Field Survey, 2024) 

Regarding security measures, 8% of respondents perceived them as highly secure, with 10% considering them secure. However, 38.7% rated them as average, while 39.3% expressed insecurity. A minimal percentage of 6% found them highly insecure.

5.2.3. Reliability and Consistency Rating

Figure 9: Reliability and Consistency Rating (Field Survey, 2024) 

When rating the reliability and consistency of mobile banking services, 12.7% deemed them excellent, while 7.3% considered them good. However, 26.7% rated them fair, and a majority of 53.3% regarded them as poor.

5.2.4. Transaction Fees Evaluation

Figure 10: Transaction Fees Evaluation (Field Survey, 2024) 

Regarding transaction fees, 10% of respondents found them very reasonable and transparent, with 22% considering them reasonable and transparent. Nevertheless, 30% remained neutral, while 33.3% deemed them unreasonable and opaque. A minor fraction of 4.7% considered them very unreasonable and opaque.

5.2.5. Customer Support Response

Figure 11: Customer Support Response (Field Survey, 2024) 

Evaluating customer support, 8% found it extremely responsive and helpful, while 14.7% regarded it as responsive and helpful. In contrast, 34% remained neutral, and 42% considered it unresponsive and unhelpful. A negligible percentage of 1.3% found it extremely unresponsive and unhelpful.

5.2.6. User-Friendliness of the App or Website

Figure 12: User-Friendliness of the App or Website (Field Survey, 2024) 

Assessing the user-friendliness of mobile banking applications or websites, 9.3% considered them very user-friendly and intuitive, with 20% regarding them as user-friendly and intuitive. However, 22.7% remained neutral, while a substantial 44.7% found them not very user-friendly and intuitive, and 3.3% considered them not at all user-friendly and intuitive.

5.2.7. Importance of Additional Services

Figure 13: Importance of Additional Services (Field Survey, 2024)

Regarding the importance of additional services, such as bill payments and fund transfers, 21.3% regarded them as extremely important, with 10% considering them important. Conversely, 17.3% remained neutral, while 50% deemed them not important, and 1.3% considered them not at all important.

6.  Discussion

The major finding of the survey is that Bkash emerged as the most widely used and preferred service among respondents. Despite this, Rocket captured a substantial user base, with over half (52%) of participants identifying it as their go-to option. Nagad, Upay, and Sure Cash followed in terms of user preference.

The study also delved into the demographic profile of respondents. The data revealed a balanced gender distribution and a strong focus on young adults, with 40% falling within the 18-25 age range. This highlights the importance of targeted marketing strategies for this demographic segment. Educational backgrounds were diverse, ranging from primary school education to postgraduate degrees, indicating a variety of perspectives on mobile banking adoption. Similarly, the survey included participants from various occupations, encompassing full-time employment, part-time work, business operations, students, unemployed individuals, and day laborers. This diversity provides a well-rounded picture of mobile banking usage across different segments of the Bangladeshi population.

The research identified several factors that influence customer perception of mobile banking services. User interface, security measures, transaction fees, and reliability were highlighted as key considerations. While a majority of respondents expressed neutrality or satisfaction with these aspects, security and fees remained areas of concern. A significant portion rated these aspects as average or below average, suggesting potential areas for improvement.Usability emerged as a concern for some users, underscoring the need for better UI design and user experience optimization.

While a portion of respondents felt secure, a significant number remained neutral or dissatisfied with current security features. This emphasizes the importance of robust security measures and user education on best practices. A considerable portion of the population rated the reliability and consistency of mobile banking services as fair or poor, indicating room for improvement in service stability. Transparency and fairness regarding transaction fees were a concern for some users. Mobile banking providers should clearly outline fees, provide real-time cost notifications, and consider offering fee waivers or discounts to enhance customer satisfaction.While some users found customer support responsive and helpful, a substantial portion considered it unresponsive and unhelpful. Improvements in response times, personalized assistance, and user-friendly self-service options are crucial.

The survey also explored the perceived importance of additional services like bill payments and fund transfers. While a noteworthy portion considered them important, a significant number found them less valuable. This suggests that prioritizing core functionalities might be more beneficial than focusing on a wide range of additional features. The study further assessed factors influencing customer satisfaction with mobile banking services in Bangladesh. While some users found the mobile banking apps user-friendly, a significant portion considered them fair or not very user-friendly. Enhancing app usability can significantly improve customer satisfaction.Similar to the previous finding, security aspects remained a concern for a considerable portion of users. Implementing robust security measures and user education is essential to address these concerns.

The range of services offered through mobile banking apps was perceived as inadequate by a considerable portion of respondents. Expanding service offerings to cater to evolving customer needs is crucial.Transaction speed and responsiveness were a concern for some users. Optimizing systems for faster processing can significantly improve customer experience. A significant majority of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with overall customer service. Addressing this issue requires improvements in response times, personalized assistance, user education on navigating features, and offering clear explanations regarding fees and charges. Transparency in communication from customer service representatives remains a concern. Clear and concise communication regarding fees, services, and troubleshooting procedures is essential.

Similar to overall customer service satisfaction, the experience with customer service representatives was rated poorly by a large portion of respondents. Implementing effective training programs and focusing on customer-centric communication can improve this aspect. Dissatisfaction with the range of services and features offered by mobile banking apps was prevalent. Expanding service offerings and ensuring user-friendliness are key areas for improvement. The study also identified challenges faced by mobile banking users in Bangladesh. Limited network coverage, technical glitches, complex user interfaces, long transaction processing times, and security concerns were identified as primary challenges users face during transactions. Difficulty understanding features, language barriers, unreliable service during peak hours, limited accessibility in rural areas, and delays in receiving transaction notifications were also reported as challenges.

To improve customer satisfaction, the study suggests implementing features like faster transaction processing, a wider range of services, improved user interface, enhanced security measures, and better customer support.Regarding security, two-factor authentication, regular security audits, comprehensive fraud detection mechanisms, user education on security best practices, and secure data encryption were recommended. For improved accessibility, establishing more agent banking outlets, expanding network infrastructure, introducing offline transaction capabilities, and conducting mobile banking awareness campaigns in rural areas were suggested. Additionally, partnerships with local businesses and NGOs were recommended. Enhancing the customer service experience could involve implementing multilingual support, extending customer service hours, improving response times for inquiries, offering personalized assistance, and providing user-friendly self-service options. Simplifying the registration and onboarding process could be achieved through streamlined account creation procedures, clear instructions for account setup, reduced.

7.    Conclusion

In conclusion, the study on mobile banking services in Bangladesh has provided valuable insights into the demographic profile, usage patterns, challenges, and potential solutions in the mobile banking landscape. The findings underscore the significance of mobile banking as a key driver of financial inclusion and digital transformation in Bangladesh, particularly among young adults and diverse socio-economic groups. The balanced representation of gender and varied age distribution among respondents highlights the widespread adoption of mobile banking across different demographic segments. Moreover, the study revealed a diverse mix of educational backgrounds and employment statuses among participants, indicating the broad appeal and accessibility of mobile banking services in Bangladesh. However, despite the growing popularity of mobile banking, several challenges persist, including limited network coverage, technical glitches, security concerns, and accessibility issues in rural areas. These challenges underscore the need for concerted efforts from stakeholders, including financial institutions, regulators, and technology providers, to address infrastructure gaps, enhance security measures, and improve user experiences. To overcome these challenges, the study proposes a range of solutions, including infrastructure development, technology upgrades, user interface enhancements, and policy adaptations. By implementing these solutions collaboratively, stakeholders can create a more inclusive, efficient, and secure mobile banking ecosystem that meets the evolving needs of the population. In essence, mobile banking has the potential to revolutionize the banking industry in Bangladesh by expanding access to financial services, empowering individuals, and driving economic growth. By leveraging technology, fostering innovation, and prioritizing customer satisfaction, Bangladesh can unlock the full potential of mobile banking and pave the way for a more financially inclusive and prosperous future.

References

Akter, R. (2023). A Study on Mobile Banking in Bangladesh. Cross Current International Journal of Economics, Management and Media Studies, 05.

AMIN, M. A. (2021). Customer’s Attitude toward Mobile Banking Usage: . Journal of Asian Finance, Economics and Business, 9.

Dr. Md. Akhtaruzzaman, Professor Shibli Rubayat -Ul-Islam. (2017). An Impact Study on. Bangladesh Bank and University of Dhaka, 44.

Hossain, M. M. (2014). Consumers’ Attitudes towards Mobile Banking in Bangladesh. researchgate.net, 16.

Nusrat Jahan, G. S. (2022). Factors effecting customer satisfaction of mobile banking in Bangladesh: a study on young users’ perspective. South Asian Journal of Marketing, 17.

Parvin, A. (2020). Mobile Banking Operation in Bangladesh: Prediction of Future. Retrieved from Journal of Internet Banking and Commerce: https://www.icommercecentral.com/open-access/mobile-banking-operation-in-bangladesh-prediction-of-future-1-15.php?aid=37948

Sabah, R. ( 2023). Impact of Internet Banking using Mobile Banking Apps on the Financial Performance Bangladesh Perspective. Retrieved from the institute of charterd accountant of bangladesh: https://www.icab.org.bd/publication/news/4/996/Impact-of-Internet-Banking-using-Mobile-Banking-Apps-on-the-Financial-Performance-Bangladesh-Perspective

Sagib, G. K. (2014). Bangladeshi mobile banking service. The current issue of M & M, 16.

 


No comments

Theme images by Deejpilot. Powered by Blogger.