Learn how to efficiently manage storage facilities remotely, including insights on using technology like Easy Storage Solutions and monday.com. Discover the challenges and benefits of outsourcing maintenance work and utilizing third-party call centers. Gain valuable tips on transitioning from a part-time assistant to a district manager for improved operations and security measures for storage units.
Utilize software like Easy Storage Solutions for rent rolls and gate access management.
Hiring a district manager and maintenance staff can improve operations in multiple storage facilities.
Deep dives
Management Strategies for Remote Storage Facilities
In this podcast episode, the host shares his experience and strategies for managing storage facilities remotely. He starts by explaining how he initially struggled to understand how to operate a storage facility from a distance without an on-site manager. However, through the use of technology and software, he was able to overcome this challenge. He highlights the importance of using software like Easy Storage Solutions for managing rent rolls, payments, and gate access. He also discusses the benefits of using a call center to handle phone calls and rentals, as well as the use of cameras for security purposes. Additionally, he emphasizes the value of having an effective fence and gate system to ensure the security of the facility. Overall, the host emphasizes the importance of streamlining systems and minimizing unnecessary moving pieces to effectively manage multiple storage facilities remotely.
Transition to New Software and Call Center
As the host expanded his storage facility portfolio, he decided to switch to a new software called Storage, owned by Storable. He explains that the new software provided better corporate reporting capabilities and allowed him to view all his facilities' data in one place. Additionally, he discusses his experience with a call center called Automated Storage, which handled phone calls, rentals, and auctions. He discusses the advantages and limitations of using a call center, noting that while it provided efficient customer service, there were some limitations in terms of the personal touch and knowledge of local nuances. However, overall, the host found the call center and software transition to be beneficial and efficient.
Hiring a District Manager and Maintenance Person
As the host continued to expand his storage facility portfolio, he made the decision to hire a full-time district manager to handle day-to-day operations. This relieved him of the majority of the responsibilities and allowed for smoother operations across multiple facilities. He also hired a full-time maintenance person, who travels to different sites, to handle maintenance tasks and ensure the facilities are well-maintained. The host acknowledges the risk of relying on one person for everything, but plans to alleviate the risk by hiring additional staff as the business continues to grow. He emphasizes the importance of having dedicated and capable employees to improve operations and provide better overall service to customers.
Streamlining Operations for Efficiency
Throughout the podcast episode, the host emphasizes the importance of streamlining operations to achieve efficiency in managing multiple storage facilities remotely. He highlights various strategies, such as centralizing vendors and contractors to minimize moving pieces, integrating software and technology to automate tasks like gate access and reporting, and implementing effective communication systems, like the Monday app, to coordinate with the call center and on-site staff. He also shares lessons learned and highlights the benefits of implementing systems like locking vacant units and using cameras for increased security and smoother operations. Overall, the host's experience showcases the value of refining and optimizing processes to effectively manage and grow a portfolio of storage facilities.
Managing self storage facilities remotely is a relatively new process. Jon discusses how he does it and how his systems and processes have evolved over the years.
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