Core System

Core Support

Consulting Services

Training & Resources

About

Core System

Core Support

Consulting Services

Training & Resources

About

Your partner through every step of the switch

Credit Union Core Processor Conversion Services

Switching core processors is one of the most critical decisions a credit union can make. CU*NorthWest manages the entire conversion to CBX, our core banking software system, with a structured project plan, hands-on training, and dedicated go-live support. You'll know what's happening, when it's happening, and who's responsible at every stage.

CU*NorthWest consultant leading credit union core processor conversion planning session

The Conversion Process

Every core conversion follows a structured project plan with defined milestones, clear ownership, and regular check-ins. CU*NorthWest coordinates the process end to end so your team always knows what comes next and who's handling it.

Structured Timeline

Structured Timeline

Clear Ownership

Clear Ownership

On-Site Training

On-Site Training

Go-Live Support

Go-Live Support

What to expect during your conversion.

The conversion process typically begins nine months before your go-live date. Here's how it works.

1

Discovery & Planning

Once your agreement is signed, we'll schedule a kickoff to walk through the full project plan. This includes reviewing your current system configuration, identifying data migration requirements, and setting milestone dates that work for your team. You'll receive a detailed schedule signed off by both sides so there are no surprises.

Configuration & Data Migration

Configuration & Data Migration

Your credit union's products, rates, fee schedules, and workflows are configured in CBX to match your operations. Member data, loan records, and account history are migrated and validated through multiple test cycles. Nothing goes live until you've reviewed and approved the results.

Your credit union's products, rates, fee schedules, and workflows are configured in CBX to match your operations. Member data, loan records, and account history are migrated and validated through multiple test cycles. Nothing goes live until you've reviewed and approved the results.

2

3

Staff Training

Staff Training

Training starts well before your go-live date and covers every role on your team. CU*NorthWest provides on-site, hands-on training at your credit union so staff can practice in the actual system they'll be using. Sessions are structured by role so tellers, lending staff, and back-office teams each get the training that's relevant to their daily work.

Training starts well before your go-live date and covers every role on your team. CU*NorthWest provides on-site, hands-on training at your credit union so staff can practice in the actual system they'll be using. Sessions are structured by role so tellers, lending staff, and back-office teams each get the training that's relevant to their daily work.

Go-Live & Stabilization

Go-Live & Stabilization

On conversion day, your team isn't on your own. CU*NorthWest is available throughout the cutover to handle questions, resolve issues in real time, and make sure your first days on CBX go smoothly. After go-live, we stay close through a stabilization period to address anything that comes up as your team settles in.

On conversion day, your team isn't on your own. CU*NorthWest is available throughout the cutover to handle questions, resolve issues in real time, and make sure your first days on CBX go smoothly. After go-live, we stay close through a stabilization period to address anything that comes up as your team settles in.

4

5

Post-Conversion Review

Once your team is up and running, we'll conduct a review to make sure nothing was missed and identify any configuration adjustments. This is also when we start talking about what's next: optimization opportunities, reporting setup, and how to get the most out of CBX going forward.

CU*NorthWest project manager overseeing credit union core system conversion and migration
CU*NorthWest project manager overseeing credit union core system conversion and migration

What's Included

A core conversion involves a lot of moving pieces. CU*NorthWest coordinates everything so you don't have to manage multiple vendors or chase down answers. Here's what's covered.

Full Project Management

Full Project Management

Data Validation

Data Validation

Role-Based Training

Role-Based Training

Dedicated Support

Dedicated Support

What your conversion covers.

Dedicated project coordination

A single point of contact manages your conversion timeline, coordinates across teams, and keeps everything on track from kickoff through go-live.

System configuration

Your products, rates, fee structures, and workflows are built into CBX to match how your credit union operates today.

Data migration and validation

Member records, loan data, account history, and transaction records are migrated and run through multiple validation cycles before anything goes live.

On-site staff training

CU*NorthWest trainers work directly with your team at your location, structured by role so every staff member is confident before day one.

Go-live support

Real-time support on conversion day and through the stabilization period. Your team can reach a real person, not a ticket queue.

Post-conversion review

A follow-up review after go-live to catch anything that needs adjustment and start planning your next steps on CBX.

Switching core processors doesn't have to be the hardest thing your credit union has ever done.

You'll always know who owns what.

One of the biggest frustrations credit unions face during a core conversion is unclear ownership. CU*NorthWest defines exactly what we handle, what the conversion team handles, and what your credit union is responsible for at every stage. You won't have to guess who to call or wonder whether something fell through the cracks.

Ongoing Upgrades

Your relationship with CU*NorthWest doesn't end at go-live. CBX is continuously improved through regular software releases, security patches, and feature enhancements. CU*NorthWest makes sure your credit union stays current without creating extra work for your team.

How your core system stays current.

Regular software releases

CBX receives scheduled updates that improve performance, add capabilities, and address regulatory changes. Releases are tested before they reach your system.

Security and compliance patches

Critical security updates and compliance-related changes are prioritized and applied on a defined schedule so your credit union stays protected.

Coordinated upgrade planning

CU*NorthWest communicates what's changing, when it's happening, and whether your team needs to do anything. No surprise updates.

Feature enhancements from the network

Because CBX serves 40+ credit unions through the cooperative network, enhancements driven by real credit union feedback are shared across the platform. You benefit from what other credit unions are requesting and using.

Upgrades without the disruption.

Most core system upgrades happen in the background with minimal impact to daily operations. When a release does require action from your team, CU*NorthWest provides advance notice, clear instructions, and direct access to support if questions come up. The goal is to keep your system current without adding to your team's workload.

Conversion FAQs

Still have questions? Talk to a CBX specialist

How long does a core conversion to CBX take?

Most conversions follow a nine-month timeline from signed agreement to go-live. The exact schedule depends on your credit union's size and complexity, but every conversion starts with a detailed project plan that maps out milestones and deadlines from day one.

Will my credit union experience downtime during the conversion?

The conversion is planned to minimize disruption to your members. Data migration and testing happen in advance, and the actual cutover is scheduled during a window that works for your credit union. CU*NorthWest provides real-time support throughout the process.

What happens if my team needs more training after go-live?

Training doesn't stop at go-live. CU*NorthWest offers ongoing training options for new staff, refresher sessions, and custom training requests. If something isn't clicking, we'll work with your team to get it right.

Can I switch to CBX if I'm still under contract with my current core provider?

Yes. Many credit unions begin the conversion planning process while still under their existing contract. CU*NorthWest can work with you on timing and concessions to make the transition as smooth as possible. Your billing with CU*NorthWest starts on your conversion date, not when you sign the agreement.

What does CU*NorthWest handle versus what my credit union handles?

CU*NorthWest coordinates the overall project plan, manages data migration, provides training, and delivers go-live support. Your credit union is responsible for reviewing and approving configuration choices, making sure staff attend training sessions, and communicating any member-facing changes. The roles are clearly defined at kickoff.

Ready to talk about switching to CBX?

We'll walk you through what a conversion looks like for your credit union and answer any questions your team has.