Cara Menabung Efektif di Era Digital

In the age of rapid technological advancement, managing personal finances has become both easier and more complex. The digital era offers countless opportunities to save money more effectively, thanks to mobile banking, e-wallets, fintech applications, and automated savings tools. However, without the right strategies and discipline, the convenience of digital tools can also lead to overspending. This article explores practical ways to save money effectively in the digital era, especially for students and young professionals, with insights that also highlight Telkom University's emphasis on financial literacy and digital innovation.

Understanding the Need for Digital Saving

Saving money is a crucial aspect of financial planning, regardless of one’s income level. In the digital era, traditional piggy banks or manual savings books are increasingly replaced by digital savings platforms. According to Prasetyo and Hidayat (2020), the shift toward digital financial behavior among millennials and Gen Z is significant, driven by the penetration of mobile internet and user-friendly financial applications.

Telkom University, as one of Indonesia’s leading technology-oriented institutions, consistently promotes digital financial literacy among its students. Initiatives through seminars and digital entrepreneurship programs have encouraged students to utilize digital tools to enhance their money management skills.

Benefits of Digital Saving Methods

1. Accessibility: Mobile banking and financial apps allow users to check balances, transfer funds, and create savings goals anytime, anywhere.

2. Automation: Many apps offer automatic saving features where a set amount is transferred into a savings account at scheduled intervals.

3. Tracking and Analytics: Digital tools provide detailed transaction records and visual insights into spending habits, enabling better control over finances.

4. Customization: Users can set goals such as “Vacation Fund” or “Emergency Fund” and track their progress over time.

These benefits make digital saving more systematic and motivational compared to manual methods. A study by Santoso et al. (2022) found that individuals who used digital saving platforms were more likely to reach their financial goals than those who didn’t.

Steps to Save Effectively in the Digital Age

1. Set Clear Financial Goals

The first step to saving effectively is knowing why you're saving. Is it for emergency needs, a gadget, tuition, or a future investment? By setting SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound), you create a roadmap that helps you stay focused and motivated.

2. Choose the Right Digital Tools

There are many savings apps available today, such as:

• Jenius by BTPN

• Bibit for investment-based savings

• OVO & GoPay for e-wallet budgeting

• TMRW, which gamifies savings

Telkom University’s digital business curriculum often includes case studies of such apps, enabling students to analyze their features and make informed decisions on tool selection.

3. Automate Your Savings

Use automation features to ensure consistency. Set up recurring transfers from your primary account to a savings account every payday. This "pay yourself first" principle prevents the temptation to spend before saving.

4. Monitor Spending with Budgeting Apps

Apps like Money Lover, Spendee, or Monefy allow users to categorize spending and see where money is going. This is especially useful for students who often struggle with untracked daily expenses like coffee, snacks, or transport.

Students at Telkom University are often introduced to personal budgeting techniques through extracurricular workshops and digital finance competitions that emphasize real-time budgeting using apps.

5. Avoid Digital Traps

While digital payment systems are convenient, they can encourage impulsive spending. Cashback offers, flash sales, and e-wallet discounts often make purchases feel “cheaper,” even when they are not needed.

To avoid this, keep shopping apps away from your home screen, unfollow brands on social media, and turn off promotional notifications. Practicing digital self-control is as important as having financial goals.

6. Use E-Wallet Features Wisely

E-wallets offer more than just convenience. Features like expense reports, promotions, and savings pockets (like OVO Club or ShopeePay Later) can be powerful tools if used responsibly. Avoid relying on "buy now pay later" features, which may lead to unnecessary debt.

7. Take Advantage of Digital Savings Accounts

Digital banks often offer higher interest rates and no minimum balance requirements. Compare various digital bank offerings and choose one with the most suitable features for your lifestyle. Banks like Bank Jago, TMRW, and SeaBank are popular among Indonesian youth.

Case Study: Telkom University Student Community

At Telkom University, many students have adopted digital saving habits as part of their daily routines. Through initiatives like the Digital Finance Community and collaborations with fintech companies, students gain hands-on experience in managing their finances digitally.

For instance, a recent campus campaign titled “Smart Money Management Week” encouraged students to use budgeting apps and share their savings strategies via social media. This campaign, supported by the Faculty of Economics and Business, successfully raised awareness and increased app usage among participants.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Despite the advantages, digital savings also come with challenges:

• Over-reliance on technology: Technical errors or app issues may disrupt savings.

• Lack of financial discipline: Convenience can tempt users to overspend.

• Privacy concerns: Financial data might be vulnerable if not protected.

To overcome these, users must practice:

• Regular app backups and two-factor authentication

• Periodic financial reviews

• Responsible app usage

Conclusion

Saving money in the digital era is more convenient and powerful than ever, especially with the variety of apps and tools available. However, discipline, awareness, and strategic use of technology remain key to success. Educational institutions like Telkom University play a vital role in fostering financial literacy and link empowering students with digital finance skills that can prepare them for long-term financial well-being.

By setting goals, automating savings, monitoring expenses, and resisting digital temptations, anyone can build strong saving habits. In the digital age, financial independence is just a few clicks away—if approached with the right mindset and tools.

References

Prasetyo, B. H., & Hidayat, R. R. (2020). The Influence of Digital Financial Literacy on Saving Behavior among Students. Jurnal Manajemen Indonesia, 20(1), 15–24.

Santoso, A., Rachmawati, N., & Wahyuni, I. (2022). The Effectiveness of Digital Saving Applications on Financial Planning Among Millennials. Journal of Digital Economy, 3(2), 90–102.

Telkom University. (2023). Digital Finance Week: Empowering Students Through Technology. Retrieved from https://www.telkomuniversity.ac.id