GFG Group has released a new module for its FINsim automated testing solution. The “Fixed Simulation” module enhances the FINsim ATM and EFT Switch Simulator and has been purpose-designed to enable domestic and regional network switches, such as those in the Asian Payment Network, to easily deploy a low cost simulator for pre-certification testing to each of their member banks.
GFG Group Sales Executive and FINsim Consultant Ewan Wilson says the FINsim Fixed Simulation module was designed and developed specifically for members of the Asian Payment Network (APN). The APN is an association of network switch operators and their stakeholders, designed to link the payment networks in Asia and Asia Pacific to facilitate cross-border payments. The new FINsim module is designed to help with APN member bank testing and connection through to the country switch.
GFG Group has a strong interest in the region, where its card, mobile and testing solutions have been gaining traction for several years. Several APN members are GFG Group customers.
“A few of the APN members are already using FINsim and we became aware of their need, and within the region more generally, for a streamlined, lower-cost yet still highly functional version of the FINsim ATM and EFT Switch Simulator that could be easily installed and operated by the networks’ member banks without the requirement for complex infrastructure, technology or support. The Fixed Simulation module addresses this need,”Wilson says.
APN members conduct cross-border EFT transactions using an agreed message standard. Local banks in each country connect to the APN member, which facilitates the transactions being switched to the correct country and issuer.
“The Fixed Simulation module is specifically locked to the standards required by each APN member. It uses the same code as the FINsim base product; however, it has been repackaged to remove most configuration options. This has resulted in a cost effective simulator that can easily be deployed at bank sites. The APN member can be confident that the correct standard is being used to test every time and that the testing has been carried out satisfactorily,” Wilson says.
The Fixed Simulation module creates efficiencies by essentially helping lighten the workload for the APN and its members. This saves both time and money because they ensure the common standards are being met before conducting real ‘live’ tests with the APN.
Standalone one device
GFG Group’s FINsim testing solution can be scaled according to a customer’s specific needs and is competitively priced to make it an easy choice for testing. The enterprise version of FINsim includes a multi-user/multi-device simulator but there are also options that can be deployed at a lower cost. As an example, the ‘standalone’ simulator version can be configured to support only a single user and single device.
Fixed parameters, simplified installation
The Fixed Simulation module has locked parameters (easily changed by GFG Group), which vary from site to site and are configured to suit. As the functionality of the module is specifically limited it can be released without copy protection, simplifying installation to a ‘click to start’ directory copy on the user’s PC.
Full function
Although the Fixed Simulation module implementation is purposely limited, the full functionality offered in the FINsim base licence is available at the user’s site, including: EMV support; full message logging, change audit logging and associated log viewers; complete record/play back and script creation/editing; and the complete ‘Tools’ menu, including all calculators.
Optional functions including Regression Testing, Stress Testing and Issuer Certification can be turned on if required.
Secure message generation
The Fixed Simulation module uses the ‘Transaction’ model to generate transaction messages. All incoming messages are validated by FINsim according to agreed message definitions and this validation cannot be overridden by the user. The full range of simulation features allows the central site to create a range of test cases and scripts for users to run. Users can also submit log files for verification by the APN.
About the Asian Payment Network
Established in 2006, the APN aims to promote the growth and advancement of its members and their stakeholders through the establishment of common standards and guidelines and collaborative regional efforts for domestic and regional switching, clearing and settlement of all electronic payment transactions. It currently includes the following member institutions:
- PT Artajasa Pembayaran Elektronis, Indonesia
- PT RINTIS Sejahtera, Indonesia (Rintis)
- Malaysian Electronic Clearing Corporation – My Clear, Malaysia
- Malaysia Electronic Payment System – MEPS, Malaysia
- National ITMX Co. Ltd. of Thailand – ITMX, Thailand
- Network for Electronic Transfers Singapore – NETS, Singapore
- MegaLink, Inc, Philippines
- Vietnam National Financial Switching – BanknetVN, Vietnam
- Korea Financial Telecommunications & Clearings Institute – KFTC,South Korea
- Paymark, New Zealand
- Strategic Payments Services – SPS, Australia.
GFG Group, working with various in-country partners in the region, is currently in consultation with several APN members, which are not already FINsim customers, about trialling GFG Group’s FINsim services.
Streamlined testing for Artajasa
For Artajasa, Indonesia’s leading electronic payment services network, deploying FINsim has simplified and streamlined development and testing of applications across the entire network. At the time that Artajasa’s implementation of FINsim was announced (March 2012), the network confirmed that its future plans included pre-certification of member banks within FINsim, to enable Artajasa to improve their certification process for both of their existing and new member banks. The Fixed Simulation module would allow Artajasa to deploy a highly functional simulator to its member banks cost-effectively and easily in order to meet its goal.
More information
GFG Group FINsim Fixed Simulation Module Overview | PDF
For more information about GFG Group’s FINsim, please contact Ewan Wilson.
T: +61 3 9661 8210
Email Ewan Wilson