K
Kathleen Martin
Guest
The expanded use of devices that integrate the Internet of Things (IoT) has the potential to reduce inefficiency, improve operation and grow profit for self-storage businesses. In fact, IoT use isn’t new in our industry. Access-control systems have leveraged its capabilities for years. But recent developments allow facility operators to do things such as control electricity usage, monitor for leaks, adjust building temperature and control digital signage.
There are still many more ways in which the IoT will help us advance in self-storage, and frankly, the previously unexplored possibilities can bring the biggest benefits yet for facility owners, staff and customers. Implementing this technology may present initial challenges, but the potential returns far outweigh the drawbacks.
Let’s Start With Some Basics
In the simplest terms, the IoT is the connection of everyday objects through the internet. “Smart” thermostats, door locks, vacuums and lights can be controlled with your voice, phone or computer, thanks to the web. A smart lock can engage itself once you move a certain distance from the door, while a smart vacuum might know to begin cleaning once that door locks. Similarly, your smart thermostat may turn off your air conditioning when it detects that no one’s at home.
These capabilities are intended to make life easier and more convenient, no matter where they’re applied. Devices used within a self-storage environment can communicate with each other as well as with devices controlled by the owner or customer to make everyday operation more efficient. Here are a few examples of how IoT is already being used in this industry:
There are still many more ways in which the IoT will help us advance in self-storage, and frankly, the previously unexplored possibilities can bring the biggest benefits yet for facility owners, staff and customers. Implementing this technology may present initial challenges, but the potential returns far outweigh the drawbacks.
Let’s Start With Some Basics
In the simplest terms, the IoT is the connection of everyday objects through the internet. “Smart” thermostats, door locks, vacuums and lights can be controlled with your voice, phone or computer, thanks to the web. A smart lock can engage itself once you move a certain distance from the door, while a smart vacuum might know to begin cleaning once that door locks. Similarly, your smart thermostat may turn off your air conditioning when it detects that no one’s at home.
These capabilities are intended to make life easier and more convenient, no matter where they’re applied. Devices used within a self-storage environment can communicate with each other as well as with devices controlled by the owner or customer to make everyday operation more efficient. Here are a few examples of how IoT is already being used in this industry:
- Smart lights: These can be controlled remotely and set to know when they need to be on or off to help reduce electricity costs.
- Smart locks: These can be locked and unlocked via a Bluetooth-enabled device such as a phone. You can grant tenants access to your front gate and their assigned unit remotely through a mobile app.
- Security video powered by artificial intelligence (AI): You can now use software with your surveillance cameras to gain more information about onsite activity. The software analyzes recorded video footage to detect suspicious behavior. If the subject of the video is jumping over a fence, for example, the software can trigger an alert.
