Software Integration Strategy

📊 Phased Technology Approach

Starting with primarily outdoor storage (boats, vehicles, equipment) and minimal shed rentals, scaling up over time.

Solution Best Timing Monthly Cost Scaling Capability
Excel + Square Immediate start, <20 customers $10-30 Limited
6Storage Lite 20-50 customers $75 Excellent
Simple Gate Keypad Month 1 (for consent evidence) $0-20 Good
OpenTech CIA Year 2+ automation $50-100 Excellent

🚀 Phase 1: Light Touch Start (Months 1-6)

Focus: Outdoor Storage with Minimal Technology

Spreadsheet + Payment System

  • Excel/Google Sheets for customer database
  • Square or Stripe for payments
  • Basic padlock system for outdoor areas
  • Manual access log (critical for consent)

Cost: $10-30/month

Simple Gate Keypad

  • Standalone unit with changeable codes
  • $500-800 one-time cost
  • Generates access data for consent
  • Professional appearance

Purpose: Prove 3-5 vehicles/day for consent

📈 Phase 2: Scaling Up (Months 6-12)

When to Upgrade

  • Reaching 20+ customers
  • Manual invoicing takes >2 hours/month
  • Customers asking for online payments
  • Preparing consent application

6Storage - NZ Entry-Level Solution

Customer PortalOnline rentals, payments, e-sign leases
Pin Pad IntegrationDirect integration with major brands
Mobile AppsCustomer and manager apps
ReportingAdvanced analytics and occupancy
Cost$75-150/month NZD
Support24/7 NZ-based support

🎯 Phase 3: Professional Operation (Year 1-2)

OpenTech Alliance INSOMNIAC CIA

Cloud-based access control system ideal for PTI keypads.

FeatureDescription
Cloud ControlManage from anywhere via web
PTI IntegrationWorks with existing PTI hardware
Mobile AccessSmartphone app entry options
Pricing$50-100/month SaaS model
SetupMinimal if PTI hardware exists

Management Systems Available

💰 Your Recommended Pathway

Month-by-Month Implementation

TimelineActionCostTarget
Month 1 Spreadsheet + Square + Notebook $30/month First 10 customers
Month 1-3 Add simple keypad at gate $800 one-time 20-30 customers
Month 3-6 Upgrade to 6Storage $75/month 30-40 customers
Month 6-12 Add connected access control $2,500 + $25/month 40-50 customers
Year 2 Full automation options $150-200/month 50+ customers

Year 1 Total Investment: $1,340 (vs $3,900+ for traditional systems)

⚠️ Critical Success Factors

✅ DO These:

  • Document access from Day 1
  • Start with outdoor storage
  • Keep agricultural appearance
  • Upgrade only when needed
  • Save money for expansion

❌ DON'T Do These:

  • Buy expensive software early
  • Install individual unit locks
  • Create online portals too soon
  • Over-automate initially
  • Look too "commercial"

📝 Immediate Action Items

This Week:

  1. Create customer tracking spreadsheet
  2. Open Square or Stripe account
  3. Buy notebook for access logging
  4. Research basic keypads locally

When You Hit 20 Customers:

  1. Evaluate 6Storage necessity
  2. Calculate admin time spent
  3. Ask customers about desired features
  4. Decide upgrade timing
Remember: Every dollar saved in Year 1 can build Shed #2 in Year 3. Your interest is covered, so there's no pressure to over-invest in technology.