Managing a single homeowners association may come easy even without technology. But, as the number of HOAs you handle begins to rise, it will quickly become apparent that HOA management requires modern solutions. When it comes down to it, HOA management and technology go hand in hand.
How the Pandemic Impacted the Relationship Between HOA Management and Technology
Given the widespread availability of technology, one would think that its usage is just as extensive. However, not all homeowners associations and management companies utilize technology to their advantage. This is not at all surprising considering the uncertainty that comes with switching to new tech. Sometimes, sticking to the old ways, no matter how time-consuming or tedious, is just more comfortable.
Then came the year 2020 and the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic. For many associations and companies, it rapidly became clear that older solutions were not effective anymore. It was no longer possible to complete many of the tasks that required in-person appearances. Remote work became the norm, and communities had to adopt new technology to maintain smooth operations.
While the steep shift in the market was certainly due, in part, to the pandemic, it was expected to go in that direction with or without a health crisis. What the pandemic did, though, was accelerate the adoption of new technology. If companies and associations wanted to continue operations without hindrance, they had to adapt. This meant having to analyze their current solutions and make way for new ones.
The Current State of HOA Management and Technology
Technology is now and will continue to remain a fixture in the management sphere. Companies have grown to realize this, as evidenced by how many have adopted new tech in their operations within the last few years.
According to a recent survey of professionals in the HOA management industry, 49.2% of respondents have been using their current tech solutions for 3 or more years. The rest of the respondents have only been using their current tech solutions for 2 years or less. This tells us that technology is still a developing solution in the HOA management business, though that will likely change in the future.
But, merely utilizing technology is not enough. Technology comes in many forms, and the solutions you choose are not always effective or satisfactory. In fact, the same survey revealed that 28.6% of respondents feel neutral or dissatisfied with their current tech solutions.
As such, even though they adopted technology to help streamline operations and improve productivity, not all of them feel that it is bringing results. This clearly indicates the relationship between homeowners association management and technology. Simply using technology without much thought does not always guarantee satisfaction.
Challenges HOA Management Companies Face
According to the survey mentioned above, there are three challenges HOA management companies face today:
- Communication (21% of respondents)
- Meeting the needs and expectations of customers (17% of respondents)
- Manual or outdated processes (15.8% of respondents)
Communication topping the list comes as no shock to anyone. Homeowners associations and their respective management companies have long struggled with communication. In fact, a chief concern among homeowners is that they find their HOA boards or management companies to be unresponsive. Even prior to the pandemic, communication has been a big problem in HOA communities.
But, the pandemic certainly did not help either. The long-standing issue with communication was only made worse by the sudden change in day-to-day operations. When the pandemic took away face-to-face interactions, many associations and management companies struggled to cope.
Considering how significant it is to the overall operations of an HOA, though, communication is not something you can simply cast aside. It is imperative to address the perception that boards and management companies are unresponsive.
Solutions for Future Productivity and Efficiency
Although it would have eventually come to light, the pandemic rapidly emphasized the problem with using outdated tech. It is no longer practical nor effective to stick to the old ways. And many companies and communities acknowledge this. In fact, 83.6% of respondents surveyed have plans to utilize new technology within the next year.
Innovative technology is a foundational tool in HOA management. Companies should prepare for the future by adjusting to the changing times and trends. This includes using solutions such as email, text, and other forms of remote communication to their advantage.
By using these tools, companies can continue to thrive and perform essential tasks even from a distance — whether that involves maintenance management, violations, or others.
The pandemic has proven that companies who quickly adapted and relied on mobile tools were able to remain competitive and flexible. They were also able to satisfy the needs of their clients while simultaneously streamlining business operations. Beyond that, companies that used new tech were able to make the most out of their teams.
While email and text messaging can help greatly with communication, HOA software can help with other problem areas, too. With software, you can automate a multitude of tasks, support transparency, and aim for growth. When you put modern tech at the forefront, you can stay efficient and productive.
A Sign of the Times
Clearly, HOA management and technology have a direct relationship. It is not enough for management companies to rely on sheer manpower and outdated tech to carry them through. Even after the pandemic, the role of technology will only continue to become more significant. As such, management companies and communities alike should make an effort to shift to using modern solutions.
Homeowners associations and their boards don’t always have the time to devote to management. This is where an established HOA management company can step in.
Cedar Management Group keeps up with the ever-changing trends in technology as well as uses a customer-based approach to management. We are the perfect choice for your community. Call us today at (877) 252-3327 or contact us online to learn more about our services.
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