Self Storage Lab

How to choose a Facility Management System (FMS) We talk to operators


Listen Later

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


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?

  • 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?

    • 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?

      • 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?

        • 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?

          • Cost Considerations

            • How is the pricing structured for the facility management system?

            • Are there additional costs for specific integrations or API access?

            • 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?

              • 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?


                • ========== Operator Conversations =========

                  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)


                  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?

                  • 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?

                    • ...more
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