While the actions of your institution will ultimately be more important than any other factor in establishing superior community relations, branch design can strongly affect the result. Using intelligent branch design is a wonderful way to connect with your community and provide the reassurance you are a community resource, not just another financial institution.

Your goal should be to create a branch office that incorporates aspects of the local heritage and culture, as well as, encourages community members to meet, talk, have coffee, surf the 'Net, or just relax. If your branch office design reflects a belief in and commitment to the neighborhood, you are providing an environment in which good community relations can flourish.