INSOMNIAC® SmartLock™ Sets New Benchmarks for Electronic Locks for Self Storage: 6+ Year Battery Life, IP56 Rating and Lowest Total Cost to Own
OpenTech’s electronic locks for self storage have achieved an unprecedented IP56 rating for resistance to dust and water with projections to save operators costs over the lifetime of the system. Storage King shares its thoughts on a pilot of the automated locking solution, including how it has improved unit access control and security at a local self storage facility.
OpenTech Alliance Introduces Two New Cost-Effective Storage Kiosk Models
OpenTech Alliance announced the release of two new full-service self storage kiosk models — the INSOMNIAC® 80 and 200. Among the lowest-priced INSOMNIAC kiosks available, these new models help operators meet every tenant face-to-face while managing their facilities remotely. These cost-effective storage kiosks offer unparalleled value, security and flexibility and are available now.
5 Operational Benefits of Self Storage Kiosks
Self-service kiosks have been an integral part of self storage for 20+ years, with dozens of features and software fine-tuned to specifically serve the self storage industry. Learn five ways they help operators streamline, simplify and support vital customer service tasks.
OpenTech Alliance Launches Online Storage Auction App for StorageTreasures Bidders
The new StorageTreasures online storage auction app for bidders promises to engage and streamline the online auction experience for storage auction buyers and drive higher lien recovery for operators. The app includes new features for the platform to engage bidders and increase auction participation, such as real-time notifications and enhanced mobile searching.
OpenTech Alliance Releases Manager Genie: A Mobile Access Control Management App for INSOMNIAC® CIA
Manager Genie simplifies self storage access control management across your properties and provides a seamless app interface to quickly open gates and doors, monitor access events, view tenant account information and more, from any internet-enabled mobile device. Manager Genie is available free of charge on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store now.
From Keyholes to Keycodes: The History of Electronic Locks for Self Storage Facilities
Locking solutions have had different implications for both self storage operators and tenants over the years, including convenience, security, and potential operational impact. Follow along as this article uncovers the history of electronic locks for self storage, including their evolution, current strengths and pitfalls, and potential applications for your portfolio to consider.
West Coast Self-Storage Enhances Security with INSOMNIAC CIA and SmartEye Facility Monitoring
After years of rapid portfolio growth, West Coast Self-Storage felt constricted by its antiquated access control system. They turned to INOMNIAC CIA to gain actionable tenant and facility data and remote oversight of its 119-facility portfolio. See how WCSS upgraded its security and improved onsite support with OpenTech solutions.
Self Storage Kiosk Enables StrongPoint Self Storage to Stay Open, Serve Customers During Unexpected Leave
When the manager of StrongPoint’s Lake Charles, LA location woke up to a devastating house flood, StrongPoint knew its INSOMNIAC kiosk could provide pivotal backup to keep its facility open and let its manager focus on saving her home.
Safe Store Upgrades Access Control: OpenTech Alliance Makes Historic Debut in Australasia Self Storage with INSOMNIAC® CIA
OpenTech is pleased to announce the success of the first INSOMNIAC® CIA access control system in Australasia. The implementation of the cloud-based access control system, in partnership with Safe Store, marks a critical moment in the industry’s local technological evolution. “CIA has become a set it and forget it part of our operation — we just don’t think about it. I don’t think we’ve spoken to support now in over a month or more for anything,” said Aaron Alsweiler, CEO of Safe Store.
StorageTreasures Welcomes Red Dot Storage As Exclusive Online Auction Partner
StorageTreasures announced an exclusive partnership with Red Dot Storage as the company’s online auction platform. This strategic shift to StorageTreasures enables Red Dot Storage to boost its lien loss recovery rates, increase auction sales, and reduce delinquent unit cleanout costs.
OpenTech Alliance Honors FAR West Technologies as Dealer of the Year for 2022
OpenTech Alliance presented FAR West Technologies with the 2022 Dealer of the Year Award during the Self Storage Association 2023 Fall Conference & Trade Show for being the top reseller of INSOMNIAC® CIA access control for self storage in 2022 as an OpenTech Authorized Dealer.
OpenTech Alliance Introduces New Call Center Service: INSOMNIAC® Live! Rent Now
OpenTech Alliance launches its latest call center solution, INSOMNIAC Live! Rent Now. This service allows self storage customers to complete full rentals over the phone with Live! Storage Counselors, providing a seamless and efficient rental experience for new tenants and improving conversion rates for storage operators.
OpenTech Alliance Celebrates 20 Years of Self Storage Technology Innovation
OpenTech Alliance announced its 20th anniversary celebrating continuous growth, innovation and an unwavering commitment to the self storage industry. At the end of July, the company celebrated two decades of effort to transform the landscape of self storage technology, and the countless industry partnerships that made it all possible.
OpenTech Alliance Integrates with storEDGE Software by Storable to Enhance Self Storage Kiosk Software
OpenTech Alliance announced a new integration with storEDGE software by Storable, a leading technology partner in the industry. See how OpenTech’s new self storage kiosk software works with storEDGE facility management software (FMS) to introduce enhancements such as seamless lease management with esign, an advanced driver’s license scanner to improve data entry accuracy, and the addition of wayfinding maps to ensure a successful customer journey.
OpenTech Alliance Integrates Upgraded INSOMNIAC Self Storage Kiosk Software with SiteLink
OpenTech announces its upgraded INSOMNIAC self storage kiosk software integration with Sitelink, the industry’s leading property management system. This software features an advanced driver’s license scanner, which streamlines the rental process and enables tenants to verify their identity quickly and securely, ensuring data integrity.
OpenTech Alliance Integrates INSOMNIAC® CIA Access Control with 6Storage Self Storage Software for Enhanced Operations
OpenTech Alliance announced its new integration between 6Storage, a principal international provider of property management software for the self storage industry, and INSOMNIAC CIA access control. This integration will empower self storage operators with a seamless, comprehensive solution for enhanced operational efficiency and customer experience.
Stor365 Implements Remote Monitoring Solution to Enhance Self Storage Security and Improve the Tenant Experience
OpenTech Alliance has helped growing operator Stor365 stop break-ins at its rural facility in Lima, OH after they faced a string of 75 incidents in three short months. INSOMNIAC® SmartEye now protects the 15-acre remote property with proactive security monitoring to prevent theft, property damage and loitering after-hours. Victor Diaz, Co-Owner and Co-Founder and Founder, says the solution has saved their operation valuable costs from ongoing repairs, lost rent and a damaged reputation, and raised their profile to the most secure storage facility in the area.
Self Storage Kiosks vs. The Mobile Myth
Can the mobile device in your pocket really compare to a self storage kiosk? As mobile technology has become a go-to resource for consumers and businesses alike, self storage operators have asked: “Why should I have a kiosk when a person can do everything from their phone?” Jon Loftin, SVP of Product at OpenTech Alliance, breaks down some of the most common myths about mobile customer service at your self storage facility.
3 Mile Storage Management Saves $4K Per Month in Payroll with Remote Manager
OpenTech Alliance expanded its partnership with 3 Mile Storage Management to help the company save an average of $4,000 per month in payroll costs with Remote Manager. In July 2022, after trying for over a year to manage customer calls internally, 3 Mile transitioned all managed sites to Remote Manager to save on customer service costs, improve the tenant experience and free internal staff to focus on other revenue-driving activities.
A Case for Convenience: Customer Service Innovation in Self Storage
The Digital Era has afforded us many modern luxuries. Now, most of us don’t think twice about scanning a QR code at a restaurant, chatting with a bot for customer service, or ordering our groceries online. This technology has changed our lives for the better, introducing a new level of convenience that simply wasn’t there before. Now, it’s also changing the way we work. If you manage a self storage facility, it’s time to consider how digital tech could optimize your workplace, improve employee morale, and completely transform the customer experience.
Red, Yellow and Green Lights: Good for Stoplights, Bad for Self Storage Keypads
Red means stop, yellow means caution, and green means go (or hit the accelerator and hurry up!). The traffic light or stoplight was patented in 1910 by Earnest Sirrine, but we all understand what the colors mean when approaching a stoplight. That is an example of an ideal user experience. Similarly, self storage keypads play a big role in providing an ideal CX for your tenants.
Self Storage Legislation Update Part 3: New Changes to Lien Laws
See new changes to self storage legislation in Texas and Louisiana that impact lien laws. Don’t add the liability of a wrongful lien sale to your storage operation. Read the article today to learn what changes have been passed into law and how they will impact your self storage business in 2021 and beyond.
Self Storage Legislation Update Part 2: More Changes to Your Self Storage Lien Laws
Legislative efforts are currently in motion in more than half the nation’s states that may impact self storage lien laws. Stay up-to-date on critical changes that impact your self storage business to avoid the risks associated with a wrongful lien sale. Read more for upcoming changes that will impact operations in Alabama, Kansas and Virgina.
OpenTech Alliance Signs Letter of Intent to Acquire Adigma, LLC
OpenTech Alliance has entered into an agreement to acquire Adigma, LLC, a leading digital marketing and technology company in the Silicon Slopes tech hub of Utah. The transaction is projected to close in the next 45 days. The principals at Adigma have notably contributed to the success of industry leaders like Extra Space Storage (EXR), National Storage Affiliates (NSA), SmartStop and more.
Self Storage Legislation Update: Changes to Your Self Storage Lien Laws
Legislative efforts are currently in motion in 27 states that may impact self storage lien laws. With the risks associated with a wrongful lien sale, it is critical to understand what efforts are in place and how they will impact your self storage business. Read more for upcoming changes that might apply to your state.
Self Storage Security Systems: Extra Space Invests in INSOMNIAC® SmartEye
OpenTech Alliance announced a strategic partnership with Extra Space Storage to reduce security threats at high-risk facilities. INSOMNIAC SmartEye, OpenTech’s highly effective security solution that leverages artificial intelligence and professional monitoring services to detect, intercept and prevent crime, has played an integral role in reducing incidents at these locations.
How Metro Self Storage Uses Online Storage Auctions & Review Services
StorageTreasures, LLC expanded their relationship with Metro Storage LLC (dba Metro Self Storage) to refine and reduce risk at every stage of the lien sale process. The veteran company has conducted auctions online since 2015 and leveraged an auction review service to minimize lien sale liability for nearly 10 years.
B&C Storage Upgrades Access Control to Support Remote Rentals
OpenTech Alliance helped growing operator B&C Storage upgrade access control across their portfolio with INSOMNIAC CIA. With a varied portfolio that offers every type of storage and a changing business model that favors remote management from a central location, they needed an access control solution that could help them deliver a seamless customer experience.
OpenTech Makes Security Monitoring Affordable for Storage Operators of All Sizes
OpenTech Alliance announced expanded INSOMNIACTM SmartEye security services with a new highly-affordable self-monitoring package.With monthly monitoring costs starting at just $25 per monitored camera, storage operators are now able to protect their employees, tenants and assets with the help of remote video access and active incident alerts.
OpenTech Adds Water Sensor Integration to IoE Platform
OpenTech Alliance announced a new water sensor integration for their intelligent platform of smart-connected self storage solutions, the OpenTech IoE (Internet of Everything). The new integration helps operators find water leaks on their storage property to prevent significant damage to their facility and loss of customer goodwill from the destruction of tenant belongings.
Canadian Operator Spacious Storage Innovates the Customer Experience with Access Control
OpenTech Alliance announced the installation of INSOMNIAC CIA access control at Spacious Storage, a Canadian operator among the first to adopt the cloud-based system. Having purchased the system before COVID-19 hit, Spacious Storage is now counting their blessings.
Storage Operator Invests in Kiosks to Safeguard Operation Long-Term
OpenTech Alliance has partnered with Maryland-based Self Storage Services, Inc. over the past 10 years to ensure they’re always open for business. The product that has proven vital to their operations during the current pandemic, and one they anticipate will be key to future success, are OpenTech’s INSOMNIACTM self-service kiosks.
Northwest Self Storage Creates Seamless Lien Enforcement Process with StorageTreasures.com
OpenTech Alliance helped Northwest Self Storage reduce operational inefficiencies to create a seamless lien enforcement process with StorageTreasures.com. Since the company started using online auctions in 2017, they’ve not only seen great returns, but have also leveraged StorageTreasures to reduce the number of units that go to auction at all.
Go Store It Mitigates Added Auction Liability from Multi-State Expansion with StorageTreasures
OpenTech Alliance helped relative newcomer Go Store It avoid auction liability during a multi-state expansion with StorageTreasures.com. Founded in 2017, Go Store It had an aggressive plan for growth throughout the southeast, tripling in size over the course of 12 months. With auctioneers licensed in all 50 states, ST helped them stay avoid liability from lien laws.
OpenTech Donates $50,000 to Self Storage Association Foundation in Honor of the Knuppe Family
OpenTech Alliance announced that is has become a Platinum Sponsor of the Self Storage Association Foundation (SSAF) thru its $50,000 donation to the SSAF Scholarship fund in honor of Jim Knuppe, his wife Bobbie and son Michael. This gift seeks to honor the Knuppe Family’s long-standing commitment to making dreams come true.
Storage King USA Leverages Suite of OpenTech Technology & Automation Services to Support Rapid Expansion & Post COVID Operation Resiliency
OpenTech Alliance has partnered with Storage King USA as part of an aggressive strategy to expand their portfolio to 200 facilities by the end of 2021. Storage King noted that technology will play a significant role in their plans for future growth and changes to their daily operations amid the new contactless environment.
The Power of Partnership: Simply Self Storage Creates the Ultimate Customer Experience with OpenTech’s INSOMNIAC® Products + Services + Apps
OpenTech Alliance helps nationwide provider Simply Self Storage deliver on its promise to provide the best service possible. Simply’s long-standing partnership with OpenTech Alliance has allowed them to confidently test new technologies as they hit the market – including the company’s access control system, INSOMNIAC CIA.
OpenTech Releases PTI Keypad Integration
OpenTech Alliance announced the launch a new PTI keypad integration that allows operators to connect existing PTI® Apex or VP keypads to INSOMNIAC CIA. The integration to INSOMNIAC CIA grants operators access to the IoE Control Center and eliminates the computer problems and never-ending software updates that they experience with older PC-based solutions.
OpenTech Accelerates Kiosk Delivery and Offers 0% Leasing to Help Self Storage Operators Navigate COVID-19
OpenTech Alliance announced it will accelerate delivery for the first 25 orders of its INSOMNIACTM 120 self-service kiosk. The company also unveiled a 0% interest payment plan and trade-in options for its 20 Series line of kiosks to make it easier for operators to respond to government mandates to limit person-to-person contact.
OpenTech Offers Online Rental Tool at No Cost
OpenTech Alliance announced it will provide its online rental software to self storage operators to rent units when their office is closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The software can be quickly embedded in a storage operators’ website and be available to rent units immediately. The e-commerce platform, INSOMNIAC Online, is available to storage operators free for 6 months.*