In our hybrid computing article, we discussed the pros and cons of using on-premise applications versus the cloud, the conclusion being that there is a place for both and bussinesses should perhaps consider a hybrid approach.
At StrataMax we have used a similar philosophy for the development of our software to support business while at the same time delivering the best of practice in one solution.
When it comes to Strata Management software, we have found strata management businesses are looking for the following:
Strong back office processing capabilities – For most strata management businesses, staff are office based and have access to multiple screens, phones, scanners etc. They require fast, uninterrupted access to be as efficient as possible.
Efficient document management and workflows – Strata Management is document dense with a multitude of documents moving through the strata ecosystem every day including: minutes, quotes, invoices, contracts, work requests, emails and other correspondence. These take many forms from digital to hard copy and come from a variety of sources including scanners, email, mail or even office-generated. Local scanners, email systems, network folders and the like all need to work together seamlessly for staff to work efficiently, removing any double handling. These documents also have their own unique workflows that may include internal staff, owners and committees. Workflows should be customisable and transparent to meet the requirements of each office.
Meeting management – Strata managers require automated tools to help them conduct meetings, record attendees, record votes and generate meeting minutes.
Owner and Committee Self Service – Strata Management companies should be offering transparency and self service to owners to access important information, pay levies and make enquiries.
Committee Invoice Approval – In recent years there has also been increased demand for online invoice approval by committees. Managers want to be able to offer this in a transparent and efficient manner that is easy for committees to use.
Online Voting – With legislative changes recently coming into effect in NSW, Strata Managers are receiving more enquiries about capabilities for online voting.
Each of these functions has varying requirements in terms of how often they are used, how much interaction is required as well as where the function is performed. These applications have been plotted against each criteria in our StrataMax Application Chart:
Based on the hybrid computing model as described in the previous article, using the Hybrid Computing Matrix we are able to plot each of these criteria and where they best fit for strata.
The Hybrid Computing Matrix favours on premise application where continual use, high interactivity and internal users are concerned. Conversely, the matrix supports cloud based applications where there is lower interactivity and infrequent usage.
At StrataMax these principles have helped guide our development philosophy by providing on-premise applications for functions with:
- high use and interaction
- high throughput
- rich interoperability with in-office applications and devices
- always-on availability
These applications cover a full back office suite that covers everything including community management, accounting, cost recoveries, document management and workflow.
Where there is a requirement for out-of- office use as well as access by owners and committees, StrataMax has deployed cloud based solutions under strict security and robust server infrastructure at our data centre here in Australia. This includes our Owners Portal, Invoice Hub as well as the soon-to-be-released VoteMax and Meeting Hub modules.