Core Banking Starter Guide

Practical insights from the front lines of core modernization.

No jargon. No fluff. Just what works.

Why this guide?

Modernizing your bank’s core isn’t optional—it’s a matter of survival. With 90% of U.S. banks still on legacy cores, most institutions are stuck with systems built when Reagan was in office.

This guide offers a candid, real-world look at what actually works in core transformation—from someone who’s been there. No consultant speak. No sales pitch. Just lessons from the trenches.

What’s Inside?

The Real Cost of Standing Still

  • Why legacy cores are your biggest competitive liability

  • Key stats to help you get leadership buy-in

Your Modernization Options

  • Complete Replacement, Phased, Wrap & Renovate, BaaS—what each means and when to use them

Planning That Actually Works

  • The prep work that makes or breaks transformations

  • What to document before you start

Execution Playbook

  • Data strategy, governance, timelines, and partner selection

  • Why business—not IT—must lead the charge

Post-Go-Live Realities

  • How to avoid “set it and forget it” traps

  • Metrics that matter and how to evolve continuously

Who should read this?

  • Bank CEOs & COOs thinking about transformation

  • Core banking sponsors and tech leads

  • Anyone facing core renewal questions and doesn’t want to learn the hard way

Bonus Toolkit

CSP’s Core Vendor Challenge Questions — 30+ brutally effective questions across architecture, APIs, support, contracts, and more. Use them to cut through sales armor and get real answers.

Get the guide

Download the guide to see what modern banking transformation looks like without the sugarcoating.

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