And just so people know you can take ach payments with out needing a web based program.

There are standalone programs or web sites that can process ach transactions for you. You would just need to enter the payments manually.

Michael,
I see that your are recommending Sitelink. Without blasting their selective approach to sales too in depth on these boards, I was wondering if you would recommend any other web based software companies you may have heard about or have experience with? Not sure if you're getting any money to promote Sitelink, but you seem to be quite in touch with the industry and it’s good to hear from someone that’s not a floating salesman on these boards...

Jennifer

Jennifer,

I am not necessarily recommending SiteLink in my post. I just happen to offer the integrating of it into websites that I develop for clients. And I haven't received any compensation from SiteLink for any referrals or integration projects.

I have a different approach then other consultants in my process of assisting facility owners/managers in selecting the appropriate software (there are ~20 on the market). It is an unbiased method of helping the owner/manager identifying their operational procedures that are dependent upon the features and functionality of management software. Once identified the owner/manager will then know if they need a web-based/enabled solution or a stand alone client. As well as many other aspects such as multi-users/locations, rate discounting, payment processing, delinquency schedules, and much more.

I am always available by phone if you want to learn more.

Have a Terrific Tuesday!

__________________
Michael T. Bishop
StorageLand - Management and Consulting Services
www.storageland.com
sales@storageland.com
208-919-0771 (Local)
877-630-0075 (Toll Free)

In my case I sell SiteLink and Self Storage Manager. I have sold StorMan, MSP and RentPlus in the past.

Sales guys strangely enough can be objective if they have enough experience. In my case I have been an owner, GM for a large group and consultant now for over 20 years.

Software is evolving (and so it should) but there are as Michael says at least 20 brands out there.

His approach is right. I work with lots of operators (large and small) and we recommend a package to them after analysing their needs.

It can be hard to select the right package and whilst "what others use" is a powerful recomendation, thats OK if you have the same skill sets as them. You probably dont.

There are packages out there that are hard to use and there is software that's easy to use. There's software that doesn't work and there is software that does. Allways will be. Some are dedicated to getting as good as it can be and there are others that have no idea.

The biggest single issue that I see from a software perspective is that there are operators out there who use software and dont know that its is reporting wrong information and is inacurate. The way in income and debtors and a host of other items is reported is critical to ensure that you comply with tax laws and more importantly that your values are correct.


One day I will do a list of the good V bad. And you will be very surprised!

It's great to see that Dallas is on the same path as I am in recommending software. I have also considered doing a Good vs. Bad list of software but have restrained myself.

One other point I make is that many security companies (cameras/gates/dvr) sell storage software but they are not familiar with the actual operational aspects of the business. So, I encourage all storage operators/managers to seek out a professional that can advise them on the proper purchase.

__________________
Michael T. Bishop
StorageLand - Management and Consulting Services
www.storageland.com
sales@storageland.com
208-919-0771 (Local)
877-630-0075 (Toll Free)

Here's a suggestion to consider: since you both have history of working with various software and (I think) you don't want to hurt any feelings by calling out specific vendors and bashing their software, maybe you could do it in a positive way? Post your Top 5 (or 6) recommendations in a new post in this forum. That ought to give you room to make a recommendation for web- and desktop-based programs as well as those you feel are best suited for large and small businesses.

None of the vendors who make your Bottom 5 list will be offended but if anyone wants to contribute why their package didn't make the cut on your preferred list it'll give them an opportunity to do so. Just an idea.

Hi John:

Not a bad idea but.......

What is good for one is not good for another. Let me give you a clear example.

I have sold over the last 15 years many hundreds of copies of software both in the US, NZ and Australia.

I have seen clients who are computer literate and some who struggle with the basics. So regardless of how good the software is, the operator most times is the key.

I have had sites who say "Oh yes I am happy with XYZ software" if they know how inacurate it was or how bad it really is they would be horified.

It gets down to customer knowledge - I dont think users should be expected to be CPA's in order to know if their software is accurate or not. Its an expectation after purchase.

What's good for some is bad for others and thats the dirversity of our Self Storage.

I must say there are a handful of software suppleirs out there doing a good job. It's only a handful and its certainly not 20......

I dont actually think the platform of how they work is really relevant. Its what they do and if its right that really counts. What is right for the site will always win.

Don't worry your OK....!

Cheers
Dallas

I for one would be interested in the list of the "handful" who are doing it right.

If you don't want to publish it here you can always e-mail or PM me anytime.

Thanks

__________________
Wayne
All American Self Storage
Palmdale, CA.
webmaster@all-americanselfstorage.com

I do not have a web site yet , so would someone explain to me so I can understand my benifit with my site link as far as charge cards/ I think they sent me info , but since we are so new I'am just happy that the charge is working at all ! BUT I DONT SWIPE MY CARDS WE DO JUST PUSH THE BUTTON AND HIT ALL THE ONES AT THE FIRST ON THE MONTH WE CAN BATCH OR RUN SEPARATLY, ALSO NEED HELP WITH WEB PAGE AND WHAT IS THE MONTHLY EXP GOING TO RUN TO HAVE A WEB PAGE, i ALSO THOUGHT UNTIL i READ dIRKWOODS POST THAT i WANTED to have pay on-line and move in options / doesnt sound good to me now ?

thanks chuck HWY P STOR IT & PARK IT BILLINGS, MO.

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Pirates Life for Me