ASB

www.asbbank.co.nz

Pros
ASB's 'real time' Internet banking system has been Mac Friendly for some time. There doesn't appear to be any reported problems with any of the standard Mac browsers. Their pages acknowledge the Mac platform and even their documentation says...

"What Do I Need To Use Fastnet Classic ?
Access to a computer (PC or Macintosh) with Internet browser software Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0 (or higher) or Netscape Navigator 5.0 (or higher) for PC users. Or for Macintosh users, Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0 (or higher) or Netscape Navigator 5.0 (or higher) for Macs.
We recommend using Microsoft Internet Explorer users use version 5.5 sp2 (or higher)."

Referencing IE and Netscape only is quite a common practice nothing to be critical of.

Their introductory page to Fastnet banking is also well worded and specifically avoids the generic term 'PC' by referring to the Mac...

"At home, at work, or anywhere in the world with access to the net via a PC, Mac or laptop. What's more, practically all transactions are in real time - it all happens before your eyes."

Cons
It might seems trivial, but in one section that lists technical requirements needed, ending the statement with the following is not Mac friendly...

"We recommend using Microsoft Internet Explorer users use version 5.5 sp2 (or higher)."

Whilst many Mac users will know that there's no such thing as IE 5.5 sp2 on a Mac others may (because this sentence does not indicate it is for PC users only) try to find a nonexistent version of the Mac Internet Explorer browser.Even more confusing is that in a subsequent paragraph they then outline the requirements again, but this time get it all right.

Coment
The ASB site has improved since it was last reviewed, but still contains some confusing statements in places that won't help Mac users who are not sure of the highest version of browsers such as Internet Explorer on a Mac. In order to join the Mac Friendly "Hall of Fame" the ASB would need to be more proactive in providing specific support and clear guidelines for Mac users.

Evidence

• ASB Internet banking - Introduction
• ASB Internet banking - Technical information