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Welcome to the Self-Storage Lab, where we delve into how operators adapt to the technology-driven landscape and its impact on their businesses. In this episode, we explore facility management software, a crucial decision for facility operators seeking to optimize their processes.

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In the later part of the episode (44:24), we hear from operators who have gone through the decision-making process and learn about their experiences with different facility management software. 

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Stay tuned for valuable insights that can guide you in selecting the best software partner for your self-storage business.

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The Importance of Selecting the Right Facility Management Software (FMS) 

• How do the different FMS types impact your self-storage business differently?
• What key factors should you consider before making your decision?
• Are there any industry-specific challenges you should address through your software choice?

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Core Features to Look for in Facility Management Software

• What are the essential features that every FMS should offer?
• How important is integration with your self-storage website and customer relationship management (CRM)?
• Are there additional features that can enhance the customer experience?

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Scaling Up: Finding the Right Fit for Your Growing Business

• What considerations are crucial when selecting FMS to support future expansion?
• Are there any potential challenges when transitioning from a simpler system to a more robust FMS?

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Understanding the Data Structure and APIs

• What information can be accessed through the APIs? (e.g., tenant data, occupancy rates, pricing, etc.)
• Does the facility management system offer open APIs for collaboration and ecosystem building?

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Analytics and Reports

• What types of analytics and reports are available in the facility management system?
• Can custom reports be generated based on specific requirements?

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Cost Considerations

• How is the pricing structured for the facility management system?
• Are there additional costs for specific integrations or API access?

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Tech Support and Onboarding

• What is the onboarding process like for transitioning to a new facility management system?
• Is there a designated account manager or tech support representative for assistance?
• What is the service level agreement for tech support and issue resolution?

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Customer Experience and Integration

• How does the facility management system integrate with an operator’s website for tenant login and account access?
• Are there any concerns about customers’ trust and understanding when interacting with the facility management system through an operator’s website?

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Operator Deep Dive

• Grace Totty on Choosing the Right FMS (44:24)
• Brett Copper on Choosing the Right FMS (1:10:40)

Back to the episode (1:17:50)

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Essential Questions to Ask When Evaluating an FMS

• Does the FMS offer educational material and an onboarding process for easy implementation?
• Should operators request customer references to gauge the FMS’s performance and support?
• What support and tech assistance should operators expect from their FMS providers?

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Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead

• What factors are driving innovation in FMS, especially in terms of contactless and mobile solutions?
• What improvements can FMS providers make to enhance customer-centric offerings?
• How is AI changing the landscape of Facility Management Systems?
• How can operators benefit from the ongoing development and integration of AI in FMS?

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