From first discussions to beta testing to full portfolio rollout, learn from industry experts about the latest in property technology and how it impacts operations, staff and residents.

The PropTech Playbook, from the minds of the NAA Technology Committee, highlights the importance of customized strategies for technology adoption. The two-part series featured inclusive panel conversations by engaging both suppliers and property management professionals. Presenters guided attendees through effective decision-making practices and multiple facets of the implementation process. As the industry increasingly embraces technology, there is a growing demand from consumers for streamlined processes. Selecting appropriate technological solutions is therefore a pivotal decision, significantly influencing both prospect and resident experiences. 

The solution isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, said Nicole Salmieri, President with Steward + Helm, who was on the panel of the first PropTech session. The company wants to be involved in the development of the tech stack. Salmieri described a recent ERP (enterprise resource planning) platform change the company went through. All levels of the company were involved, not just executive decision-makers. They went on a PropTech journey from a user’s perspective to see how it affects their work. "It was one of the critical pieces to our success,” she said. Onsite teams were also able to vote and use scorecards to provide feedback on PropTech. This demonstrates the need to consider feedback from team members about how new technologies impact both end users and those who will operate them. 

In the second session, the panel discussed some tips for introducing new technologies. This illustrates the organizational change required to implement these new systems. The technology depends on the need, but RangeWater has been an early adopter in the past—firms don't want to be first or last with the tech. The company wants someone else to work out the kinks, giving them time to discuss adoption, processes, policies and training, said panelist Fannie Thomas, Senior Director, Business Applications, RangeWater Real Estate. Examining the various aspects of implementation is a central strategy that is identified when considering the process.  

Make sure to know what policies and procedures are going to change or need to be updated, said Kendra Bork, CFO and Principal, Cambridge Management Group, who was on the panel of the second session. Bork suggests that by selecting company advocates who can support the product launch, as well as serve as resources for others learning about the new product, “employee cheerleaders" can help provide a tech usage journey, giving others the ability to ask questions and comment on the new tech. With these insights, it’s clear that team member feedback and testing may be the most crucial part in selecting and rolling out new systems and technologies.  

To watch The PropTech Playbook series and learn more, visit naahq.org/webinars. 

Tiana Heath is NAAEI’s Senior Manager, Industry Relations.