When it comes to credit union data processing, there are many "do's" and "don'ts". Some credit unions get along great with they core partners, others... not so much. No matter what your status is with your current core, it's important to keep your head on straight and remember the basics. Here are 10 commandments that may invoke some deeper thoughts into how your core processor works with your credit union:

1. Worship no credit union core processor: Credit union cores are not God. You may have found what you believe to be the holy grail of core processors, but the industry is always changing and evolving, and if your core is not keeping up with the demands, it is perfectly acceptable to look elsewhere for redemption. When was the last time you performed a core system review? Not sure where to start?  Read our blog: Credit Union Core Processing Reviews in Three Simple Steps.
   
   
2. Do not make yourself an idol: You know your credit union, you know your members, you have faith in your staff. However, when it comes to technology, it is sometimes best to seek some guidance outside yourself. And while consultants abound, they don't always have the best intentions in mind. Many consulting services create a time-consuming process designed to project value, yet conclude yielding a predictable brand name in order to achieve a risk averse objective. Rather, look at creating a team of internal experts that represent every business and transactional segment during the review process. Read our article: Core System Reviews: the Good, the Bad & the Consultant
   
   
3. Do not curse your core system, but do hold it accountable: Technology can be frustrating. Outages happen. It's a modern-day fact of life. Your core system's response to these minor sins matter. While a hiccup here and there is forgivable, be sure they are responding appropriately, making necessary changes and providing great and honest customer service. 
   
   
4. Remember to regularly test your Disaster Recovery Plan: Testing a disaster recovery plan affords the opportunity to organize thoughts and actions by combining the proper documentation mixed with the proper training and staff knowledge. Having the right core processor can help you plan proactively to ensure system failures and outages are a rare occurrence by actively measuring data thresholds, processing load limits, and even providing on-site disaster tests.  Follow these Disaster Recovery Tips You Need to Know.
   
   
5. Honor your Contract: Is your core processor honoring the contract terms they presented during the courting phase of your relationship? Have they proactively reviewed those contracts with you? Many promises are made during the beginning of the sales process, and it's important they are kept in order to build and maintain trust. Read our advice in: Core System Review: From Speed Dating to Marriage.
   
   
6. Thou shalt not kill: If your current core data processor is getting on your nerves or not meeting acceptable standards, don't murder them. Rather, make accomodations for a core system review focus your efforts and what other core processing systems have that might be a better fit for you. (Note: killing the contract when it expires is ok)
   
   
7. It's OK to look around: The real ten commandments instruct us that adultery is a sin. On the other hand, in the core processing world, it is actually encouraged to look around at other processors and credit unions.  See what features and functionalities they are providing and challenge your current core partner to provide similar advancements.
   
   
8. Don't steal away from compliance: Staying ahead of compliance is no simple feat, and can be costly to your credit union. Compliance should be facilitated by your core technology, and choosing compliance-minded technology partners should be taken into consideration during a core system review. Here are 4 compliance mistakes you should avoid making.
   
   
9. Thou shalt not lie: There is such a thing as too good to be true. If a flashy new processor is enticing you with a price that seems unbelievable, it is best not to place your faith in the operation. 
   
   
10. Covet, covet, covet: The future of your credit union relies heavily upon attracting new members from younger generations.  Right now, the target group is millennials. What do millennials want?  What they want should be what you want and should be what you expect on the development roadmap, if not already in development, with your core. After all, to be shortsighted and not looking toward the future would be a great sin.