Cool Combo: Integrating Management and Security Software in Self-Storage

Once again, integration to your security system makes all the difference. Each unit is controlled individually via your management software, and each status is assigned a color based on a unique legend of your choosing. For example, if you have an integrated access-control system, you will instantly know when a tenant is onsite because the unit color will change from the "offsite" color to the "onsite" color. This gives you a good understanding of who is currently on the property throughout the day.

Higher-end facilities that incorporate wireless door alarms on each unit can take this software to the next level by not only knowing who is on the property, but also knowing if units are opened or closed by simply glancing at the layout monitor. This program is fantastic for marketing to prospective tenants as they enter your office, and also a great tool for your manager to use in his daily operations.

Another software system no storage facility should be without is designed for your digital video recorder (DVR) system. With aggressive pricing offered by most vendors, there is no reason to still use old VCR tapes and multiplexers. New DVR software allows you to record and multiplex just like the old systems, but with a lot more features. For instance, almost all systems allow you to remotely monitor your facility via the Internet by using either a Web browser or a software program. You can also easily copy events onto CD or DVD, or quickly search for an event using a date, time or other criteria.

The evolution of software and security systems—and the tighter integration of the two—has brought a myriad of benefits to tenants and owners alike. During the early days of self-storage, most people were forced to use pen and paper to track transactions. They were also required to either use featureless access systems that were not integrated with their management systems, or worse, open and close the gate manually each day.

Thankfully those days are over, and with the many options available there is no reason for any storage facility to not benefit from new software and security technologies. Both are affordable solutions that actually pay for themselves in increased efficiency, better control over cash flow, and improved protection of tenants and their belongings.

This month we have concentrated on the evolution of software and how its integration with your security system can save you time and money. Next month, in the Inside Self-Storage Annual Security Issue, we'll take a deeper look into the various security system components, such as wireless door alarms, digital video surveillance, paging systems and the next generation of access-control systems. 

Jacqui Kuzmin is an account representative for QuikStor. With an emphasis on customer service, she specializes in helping owners and managers choose security and software solutions based on their unique business needs. To reach Ms. Kuzmin, call 800.321.1987; e-mail jkuzmin@quikstor.com; visit www.quikstor.com.