When self-storage facilities switched from DOS to Windows, they instantly enjoyed better functionality and integration with hardware such as gate systems, scanners, printers or cameras. Some systems even provide ties to other platforms, such as Peachtree Accounting and Microsoft Outlook, to assimilate e-mailing invoices and receipts.

Users of Windows-based systems continued to ask for the many functions the Internet can deliver. Web systems are not an alternative to but a natural evolution of Windows programs. The switch from Windows to Web is not a lateral one but a huge step up in money-making features for self-storage operators. The seismic impact of Web systems on the bottom line makes the DOS-to-Windows transition look pale in comparison.

Windows systems won’t stop running or disappear immediately. Instead, we see increasing numbers of users switch because they realize Web systems more than pay for themselves with added features.

Web-System Architecture: Superior by Design

Good Web systems are designed from the ground up using newer programming languages and databases different from their Windows-based predecessors. The winning combination in Web-system design offers more speed, faster operation and printing, added features and fewer clicks. Still, users should demand the same user-friendly look and feel they experienced in Windows programs.

It’s an engineering challenge to make self-storage software work fast over the Internet because each facility has so much data. One of the most popular is Microsoft’s approach using "Smart Client" architecture that runs lookup, reporting and printing on local PCs. "Smart Client" means your data exists on each of your computers. Only active transactions, like payments, call up the database on the Web server. The new Web system works even if the Internet is temporarily out of service. Plus, it requires little training because it looks like a Windows not browser-based system. Microsoft’s method is safe because it does not require using a Web browser.

A real draw to Web systems is their money-saving capabilities. They offer users better access and integration with other platforms and equipment. You can run the new product anywhere, on numerous computers, even simultaneously. Users no longer have to spend money on servers, networking computers, maintaining networks or making backups. Savings from better data safety, lower maintenance and faster setup are instant and grow quickly. Here are numerous other benefits of Internet-based systems:

New Program, New Pricing

Just as Windows programs were less expensive than DOS systems, in many cases Web systems should cost less than Windows programs. Only software vendors with the strongest focus on service can write and support Web systems. Owners’ benefits such as servers, backups, built-in redundancies and live updates take more work for a vendor to implement and maintain, but save storage owners big time. Vendors of Web systems have to work hard to ensure uninterrupted service.

For owners, there are no more large upfront investments common with Windows systems or long-term contracts. Web systems should be based on month-to-month plans or annual payment options. Because of this, software-as-a-service means owners have no more than last month’s low payment invested. Providers of Web systems are able to offer more features and services to consumers by increasing sales and installing more copies. Exceptional service keeps operators coming back. 

Markus Hecker, COO, has been with SMD Software since 1996. SMD provides Windows-based and Web-based management software. SiteLink offers features such as revenue management, online payments and search-engine optimization. For more information, call 919.865.0789; e-mail [email protected]; visit www.smdsoftware.com.