Industry Veterans Use Self Storage Automation to Open First Smart Storage Property

November 8, 2019 – Phoenix, AZ. OpenTech Alliance, the leading developer of innovative smart-connected technology solutions for the self storage industry, announced Pack, Stack & Store implemented INSOMNIAC® CIA as part of a high-tech, luxury business model. Founded by Matt Clark & Brian Harrington in Huntley, IL, Pack, Stack & Store celebrated its grand opening in August 2019.

With a pedigree that dates back to 1999, Matt Clark learned the business working at two of the industry’s top operators. Clark started his career with Public Storage, then went on to set up and operate over 30 facilities in his capacity as VP of the original Life Storage before it sold to Uncle Bob’s. In this role, Clark successfully implemented several models of OpenTech INSOMNIAC Kiosks to streamline the rental process. With his first personal venture into self storage ownership, Pack, Stack & Store, Clark was committed to providing an upscale, high-quality storage experience.

“There are so many exciting features now available in the industry to enhance the customer experience and improve store management,” stated Clark. “With this new development, we really sought to upgrade the market by leveraging technology to provide a streamlined experience.”

Pack, Stack & Store was originally slated to install a PTI access control system – but chose to cancel their contract in favor of the higher quality product, greater functionality and personalized service provided by INSOMNIAC CIA and OpenTech. “With PTI we were just a number,” stated Clark. “The team at OpenTech really went out of their way to understand the needs of our facility and wanted to be a true partner in our success. It wasn’t an easy process to switch, as things were already in the works. Most people use PTI because it’s the norm – but it was important to us to provide the best possible solution for our tenants. We had the opportunity to implement a better product, so we did.”

Among the upgrades included at the new facility is hands-free tenant mobile access via the Storage Genie app, included with INSOMNIAC CIA. Once set up, tenants can use Storage Genie to open the gate without the need to re-enter credentials or even open the app. Other site upgrades include remote monitored cameras, WIFI thermostat monitoring, LED sensor lighting, motion-activated surveillance systems with threat detection, restricted zone alerts, license plate cameras, drive-in climate-controlled vehicle storage and online rentals with E-signature.

With this new facility, Pack, Stack & Store sought to improve standard processes for both the customer and the operation. Managers receive specialized sales and customer service training, and have custom marketing tools on-hand to promote the new functionality and upscale features available at the facility. Through a hybrid of automation and manpower, the facility seeks to give tenants control to self-manage their account, with staff available onsite should they need additional customer service.

“When we developed INSOMNIAC CIA, we had the unique opportunity to build this product from the ground up to address access control challenges operators have faced for years,” stated Jon Loftin, OpenTech VP and IoE Product Owner. “The technical support team is a critical aspect of the CIA experience. They are available to answer calls when managers have questions instead of requiring them to submit an online ticket. We were also able to include capabilities never before possible or imagined – we love that our clients are able to leverage these extra features and functionality, such as hands-free access, to find success in competitive markets.”

INSOMNIAC CIA provides operators with centralized reporting and control from the OpenTech IoE Control Center, advanced analytics and predictive maintenance triggers, and a hands-free tenant mobile app to enhance the customer experience.

Learn more about INSOMNIAC CIA here, or contact us today with questions.

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