Michigan First
Mobile banking for 165,000 members, rebuilt from the ground up
Client
Michigan First
Industry
Banking
In 2018, Michigan First Credit Union, a large Michigan-based financial institution, partnered with Detroit Labs to redesign and launch their mobile banking app, reinforcing their focus on digital agility and member engagement.
Michigan First has been a cornerstone of Michigan’s financial landscape since 1926, with over $1.4 billion in assets and nearly 165,000 members statewide. As member expectations shifted toward fast, secure, and intuitive mobile experiences, Michigan First turned to Detroit Labs to build a next-level digital platform.
The Challenge
While Michigan First had a legacy of technology-first banking, their existing mobile app lacked modern features and user-centric design. They needed a solution that would:
Enhance account management and transaction features
Increase user adoption and engagement
Reinforce their brand as a tech-forward, member-first credit union
The Vision
Detroit Labs worked with Michigan First to frame a product vision centered on simplicity, security, and speed. The goal: create a flagship mobile app that delivers frictionless banking. This meant focusing on intuitive navigation, seamless logins, and quick access to core services like account tracking, transfers, payments, and loans.
The Process
Discovery & Research
We began with user interviews and usage data analysis, uncovering key friction points—like log-in challenges and slow accessibility to loans and statements.
Iterative Design & Validation
Through rapid prototyping and frequent usability testing with real members, we refined flows for tasks like check deposits, bill payments, and loan pre-qualification.
Cross-functional Collaboration
Our agile teams embedded QA early, ensuring no compromises on security or performance. Regular feedback loops with Michigan First stakeholders kept priorities aligned.
The Solution
Detroit Labs delivered a polished, responsive mobile banking app with:
Secure login: Biometric support for fast, protected access
Streamlined account views: Easy navigation across checking, savings, loans, and insurance
Effortless transactions: Simple flow for transfers, payments, and mobile deposits
In-app loan tools: Pre-qualification and application support
Member resources: Access to financial education, insurance tools, and real-time notifications
Behind the scenes, the app integrated securely with Michigan First systems and Mantl’s account-opening platform, strengthening digital trust.
