The Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), through its CHISEL Lab, has initiated a significant research and development partnership with Allied Bank aimed at revolutionising banking services through the application of robotics and Human-Robot Interaction (HRI).
According to a statement today, the strategic alliance was formally established with the signing of an agreement by Mr. Muhammad Zaman, Group Head, Digital Transformation and Innovation at Allied Bank, and Dr. Suleman Shahid, Associate Professor and Director of the CHISEL Lab at LUMS, witnessed by representatives from both esteemed institutions.
As part of this collaboration, a Pepper Robot has been installed at the CHISEL Lab. This dedicated research platform will facilitate experimentation and co-development of automated applications specifically designed for the financial sector. The investigative efforts will concentrate on refining customer interaction, enhancing service provision, and developing assistive banking environments.
Selected solutions emerging from this initiative are slated for rigorous evaluation in practical settings, including Allied Bank Digital Lounges. This assessment will gauge their usability, scalability, and the potential for customer adoption in real-world scenarios.
A Joint Innovation Steering Group will provide oversight for the entire endeavour. Expected outcomes encompass the development of functional prototypes, valuable pilot insights, potential joint academic publications, and a substantial reinforcement of the link between academic research and industrial application.
Dr. Suleman Shahid commented on the partnership, stating, ‘Partnering with Allied Bank enables us to translate cutting-edge research into real-world impact. This collaboration will accelerate innovation in human-robot interaction and open new avenues for intelligent, human-centric service design.’
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Muhammad Zaman remarked, ‘This collaboration reflects Allied Bank’s commitment to shaping the future of banking through emerging technologies. By leveraging robotics and human-robot interaction, we aim to deliver more intuitive, efficient, and personalised customer experiences.’