Without doubt, Finland has been one of the Europe's pioneers in using advanced information and communication technologies in many economic processes. This has also had a large influence on the whole banking system. Therefore, due to their ability to skilfully and successfully adopt to the ever-changing economic conditions and because of the growing competence of society in using information technology, Finnish banks have become leaders in the use of the modern technology in providing financial services.

The changes which have been taking place in the Finnish banking system for the last decade have resulted from banks' conscious actions or even co-operation and from their attempts to meet customers' needs. Obviously, economic factors (reflected in macro-economic conditions in which the economy functions), as well as legal and organisational aspects have also played their role. The use of electronic channels of distribution have enhanced and dominated Finland's modern banking system. The continuing abandoning of the traditional banking infrastructure, which is being replaced with modern electronic one, has made banking services available to customers, regardless of time and place.

The increasing application of electronic operations in payment system, the growing number of customers interested in electronic services, together with the improving financial status of banks justifies the conclusion that Finnish banks have taken advantage of the development and use of advanced technologies in providing services. It should be remembered, however, that the success of the Finnish banking sector was not accidental, but resulted from long-term joint activities by institutions engaged in the process of shaping of the Finnish banking system.