Bank technology companies UFS and BankOnIT announced their planned merger this week. .The merger is intended to combine the expertise of Grafton, Wis.-based UFS in core banking, digital and customer engagement solutions with Oklahoma City-based BankOnIT’s strength in private cloud, cybersecurity and managed IT services. The new organization is intended to expand technology choices for community banks, offering greater flexibility, efficiency, and long-term support. The combined company will keep all existing offices across Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Georgia, Kansas and Pennsylvania.“At UFS, we believe the right technology partner listens, leads and adapts,” said President and CEO Eric Jones, who will serve as CEO of the combined organization. “Joining forces with BankOnIT allows us to enhance our offerings while staying true to our purpose and relationship-first philosophy.”BankOnIT Founder and CEO Ryan Samples, who will join the board and be a strategic advisor, said the merger will simplify IT management for banks while boosting security and scalability. “This is about removing constraints and helping banks focus on what they do best — serving their communities,” Samples said.