The rapid advancements of technology in the multifamily industry demand decision makers to develop a working knowledge of their capabilities. In order to improve operations while streamlining workflow, operators need to deploy technology solutions that seamlessly work as one. That’s where understanding whether or not the proptech solutions are interfacing or completely integrated becomes essential—the difference can make a huge impact on a team’s efficiency and daily processes.
An interface—also known as an information bridge—is interconnection between products where systems communicate under limited capacity. Data is maintained in multiple locations and requires some form of manual administration. The relationship doesn’t allow data to sync in real-time, which leads to inconsistencies and inaccuracies.
Unlike an interface, software integration combines products to function as a single source solution. Operating from the same database instead of passing information across a shared boundary, integrated products combine data, reporting and workflow across a single platform to provide a unified user experience. Integration allows all system components to seamlessly connect and work together; thus improving capabilities through automation and accelerating workflow performance.
At the rate the multifamily industry is modernizing, most operators are looking for a system built from components that act and perform as one. A firm grasp of what a proptech solution can and can’t do is therefore vital before deployment.
Below are the five essential questions multifamily operations should ask potential supplier partners to reveal a product’s true capabilities:
To learn more about the important differences between interfacing and integrating products as well as get examples of fully integrated proptech solutions, read the full article here.