Payment Transaction Architecture

This technical question asks the vendor to explain how their system handles credit card transactions from start to finish. They need to describe the path a credit card payment takes through their system—how they check if the card is valid, get approval from the bank, and complete the transaction. It's like asking them to draw a map showing the journey of a payment through their technology.

Understanding transaction architecture reveals security vulnerabilities and compliance gaps that could cost you millions in breach damages. Poor architecture can lead to slower transaction times, higher decline rates (losing 2-3% of revenue), and increased fraud exposure. Well-designed architecture reduces PCI scope, lowering audit costs by up to 60% and improving customer payment experience.

Vendors often provide overly simplified descriptions that hide critical security touchpoints where data could be exposed. Another mistake is not addressing how the architecture handles failures, network issues, or high-volume periods, which can create temporary security vulnerabilities or compliance violations.