There are various ways through which operators of self-storage facilities can improve their productivity and improve the efficiency of facility operations. Automation of processes is one of the best ways for facility operators to achieve greater efficiency and productivity.

In order to do this, facility operators may be forced to adapt the use of self-storage management software applications. This article provides an overview of the available types of self-storage management software applications for storage facility operators looking to make this investment.

Stand-Alone Software Applications

Stand-alone management software applications are installed directly on computers used at the self-storage facility. Stand-alone software applications are the most affordable and often the most commonly used. With these software applications, storage facility data is saved on local hard disks on the facility computers. A backup of facility data is also stored on external hard drives just in case the facility loses its computers to theft or damage.

Because stand-alone software applications are bought outright, facility owners need not worry about monthly charges for using the software.

On the down side, stand-alone self-storage software applications do not allow prospective clients to make online reservations for storage space. They also don't allow the facility operator to receive online payments.

Web-Enabled Self-Storage Management Software

These software applications are often considered additions to their stand-alone counterparts. Web-enabled management software applications run in the computer's background and they allow for synchronization of information between storage facility computers and the servers of the software service provider. As such, self-storage facilities that use web-enabled software applications have the ability to receive online payments and they offer their clients the convenience of making online reservations. These software applications are suitable for use in storage facilities with poor internet connectivity.

Web-Based Management Software

Web-based software applications are divided into two categories. Browser based software applications allow facility operators direct access to the software using any device that has a web browser and an active internet connection. The second category is referred to as client-based software applications and these must be installed on the facility computers. Client-based software applications are often preferred over their browser-based counterparts for their higher processing speeds.

Web-based management software applications allow for secure storage of data on the hosted servers of the service provider. This insures against data loss in the event of computer damage or theft within the storage facility.

Storage facility owners who settle for web-based management software applications need to ensure that there's robust internet connectivity within the storage facility.

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