Software Soundoff: What Self-Storage Operators REALLY Want

Also, we have found that complementary features can make a huge impact—like having the ability to enter important and unlimited notes into the collections module for each client, interfaces to leading gate and alarm systems, multi-user security, rapid export and import functions, broad system interfaces, website statistics and an executive dashboard.

Persiano: What does the future hold for you as far as management software is concerned?

Hughes: Actually, one of the key areas is payment online with debit/credit card. We are already in the process of moving forward with this kind of solution. We have already taken our business online by allowing our customers to make reservations through our website, and soon we plan to offer online payment capability in tune with the current trend in self-storage industry. Our customers have been asking for it and we look forward to making it happen. The next frontier for us will be integrating a module for a call center to help us in executing payment reminders and collections.

Ray Bartolacci III, R.A.B. Management Corp.

Persiano: You’ve been successfully operating three self-storage facilities in Pennsylvania and are preparing to open additional locations. What was the decision-making process behind your selection of Web-based management software for your locations?

Bartolacci: As an individual actively involved in real estate business, I am always on the move and need to be on "top of things" for my self-storage business. Dialing into the sites or calling on my manager to see how the stores are doing isn’t my mode of operation. I need direct access to real-time data from anywhere at anytime, and I need to be able to make changes to the specials or rental rates on the fly based on changing market conditions within my region.

It made sense to implement Web-based management software that offered centralized database architecture. In addition to the ubiquitous access, I can rest assured that catastrophic events will not put me out of business. I have everything stored both onsite and offsite, and I know that I will always be able to gain access to my critical business data.

Persiano: You are using an e-commerce site. Why did you make this leap, and how has the site transformed your business?

Bartolacci: Having an e-commerce site means that I am not always waiting for the phone to ring. I can use Internet marketing techniques, such as search-engine optimization, to attract prospects and build my client base. I have expanded my reach to a wider audience.