Skip to main content

Grand Central Platform Overview

Grand Central is the first integration platform built only for banking, designed to tackle the complexities inherent in banking integration environments.

API-First Architecture

Leverages pre-built connectivity and Integration Platform-as-a-Service (iPaaS) for bespoke connectors

Enterprise Ready

Architected for enterprise banking with high-quality BIAN APIs pre-integrated with EBP

Unified Integration

Provides a single layer between EBP and diverse banking systems (Cores, CRMs, Fintechs)

Banking Standards

Complies with BIAN and ISO standards for maximum interoperability

The Banking Integration Challenge

The banking environment involves multiple distinct systems, each using different data models and API specifications:
Core systems include solutions like:
  • TCS (Tata Consultancy Services)
  • Fiserv banking platforms
  • Oracle financial services
  • Silverlake core banking
CRM systems include:
  • Salesforce for banking
  • Microsoft Dynamics 365
  • Custom CRM solutions
Specialized fintech integrations:
  • Identity Verification: Jumio, Onfido, Prove
  • Behavioral Biometrics: Feedzai, BioCatch
  • Payment Solutions: Specialized payment processors
Compliance requirements:
  • BIAN (Banking Industry Architecture Network)
  • ISO standards for financial services
  • Open Banking protocols

Core Strategic Principles

Grand Central leverages several core principles to drive value across banking organizations:

Fast Time to Market

Pre-built connectivity and iPaaS enable rapid deployment while efficiently using R&D and Bank IT capacity.

Distributed Integration Work

Pre-built connectivity provided by Backbase, while bank teams handle bespoke integrations.

Integration Platform Control

Dedicated iPaaS supporting API modernization and bi-directional syncing with enterprise-grade DevOps.

System Coexistence

Decoupled from Digital Channels, enabling connection to Systems of Record, Fintechs, and Bank APIs alike.

Integration Fabric Architecture

The Integration Fabric is the core layer responsible for streamlining and scaling connectivity across multiple touchpoints: Online, Mobile, Call Center, Branch, and API.
Fabric LayerRole
Engagement FabricOrchestrates sales and servicing workflows
Intelligence FabricSupports analytics, intelligence and data flow
Integration FabricStreamlines & scales connectivity across all channels
Systems of RecordCore systems, legacy modernization, and fintech integrations
Cloud FabricProvides underlying cloud infrastructure and services

Platform Offerings

Grand Central provides flexible deployment options to meet diverse banking needs: Productised Connectors are ready-to-use connectors for common banking systems and use cases, designed for rapid deployment and immediate value. Key categories include:

Core Banking Systems

Pre-configured connectors for leading core banking platforms including Temenos, FIS, and Oracle FLEXCUBE.

Payment Networks

Direct integrations with Visa, Mastercard, SWIFT, and domestic payment rails for seamless transaction processing.

Compliance Systems

Ready-to-use connections for AML, KYC, and regulatory reporting systems from major compliance vendors.

Data & Analytics

Pre-built integrations with business intelligence and analytics platforms for real-time insights.
Key Benefits: Rapid Deployment (production-ready in weeks, not months), Proven Reliability (battle-tested across multiple banking implementations), Ongoing Support (regular updates and maintenance included), Compliance Ready (built with banking regulations and security standards). Custom Connector Slots provide a flexible development platform for building custom integrations when specific requirements demand unique solutions. Capabilities include:

Full Development Platform

Complete SDK with project templates, testing frameworks, and development tools for rapid custom connector creation.

Reusable Components

Library of 300+ open-source components plus banking-specific Kamelets for accelerated development.

Expert Support

Dedicated engineering support and best practices guidance throughout the development lifecycle.

Cloud-Native Architecture

Built on Kubernetes with auto-scaling, monitoring, and enterprise security features included.
Ideal For: Unique Legacy Systems (custom protocols or proprietary interfaces), Specialized Requirements (industry-specific or regional compliance needs), Innovation Projects (cutting-edge integrations with emerging technologies), Competitive Differentiation (custom workflows that provide strategic advantage).

Benefits Cycle

The Grand Central iPaaS supports a continuous improvement cycle: Build (or Buy) IntegrationsManage + RunGovern + Scale

Out-of-the-box banking connectors

Pre-built connectors accelerate integration development

Faster development cycles

Streamlined development and deployment processes

BIAN API compliance

Standards-based architecture ensures interoperability

Reduced maintenance costs

Managed platform reduces operational overhead

Next Steps