OpticWise: Reimagining connectivity solutions for modern office and residential communities

In the contemporary landscape of office and residential living, it is essential to adopt connectivity solutions that align with the lifestyle and work preferences of present-day office professionals and residents of multi-family communities. OpticWise not only embraces the expectations and demands of Generation Z and the post-pandemic workforce but also enhances a property with technology precisely tailored to meet its evolving needs.

CIO Bulletin had the opportunity to talk to the CEO, Bill Douglas, about the company’s continuous efforts to grow with innovation.

Q. Why was OpticWise started? How has the company been a game-changer in the proptech and in-building connectivity sectors?

The establishment of OpticWise stemmed from the need to address connectivity challenges within multi-tenant real estate. Originally founded as Summit Networks in 2005, a strategic rebranding in 2015 as OpticWise refocused our efforts exclusively on apartments and office buildings. This transformation coincided with substantial investments in our SaaS platform, a cornerstone supporting our distinctive 5S^® user experience.

OpticWise has earned acclaim from both Commercial Real Estate (CRE) owners and tenants, providing a premium solution and boasting a team with extensive experience in managed services and deep technical expertise. Over the past nineteen years, we have actively assisted our clients in the effective management of tens of millions of square feet of commercial real estate, ensuring that owners optimize the financial returns from their technology assets.

Q. What is OpticWise’s unique selling point that has helped it dominate the market when compared to its rivals?

In a landscape where technology assets are frequently overshadowed by physical assets, OpticWise stands out by making a significant impact on the owners of multi-tenant and multi-family CRE properties. Our distinctive offering empowers CRE owners to implement state-of-the-art connectivity solutions that not only enhance the user experience but also leverage the building’s network infrastructure as a powerful tool for enhancing tenant/resident retention and significantly boost Net Operating Income (NOI).

Q. What are the similarities and differences in the way OpticWise provides its multi-family and multi-tenant office solutions?

The similarities are in the BoT^® methodology and our cutting-edge 5S^® Priority User Experience delivered privately and securely property-wide. The only differences are in the tenant bases. Office tenants expect integrations with directory services and security platforms, while apartment tenants expect high-speed, highly reliable, seamless, and private connectivity.

Q. What are the advantages multi-tenant commercial real estate owners can expect to receive in choosing OpticWise’s fully managed solutions?

Multi-tenant property owners, regardless of whether they have offices or apartments, stand to gain in several significant ways:

• Comprehensives support: Our dedicated team takes full responsibility for handling the intricacies of a property owner’s digital infrastructure. We handle all tenant and staff support requests, manage all partners involved in delivering the solution, and handle system updates, guaranteeing a premium experience for both property owners and tenants.
  
  
• Tailored solutions: OpticWise sets itself apart by designing solutions specifically tailored to the needs of modern workplaces and multi-family residential communities. Our 5S^® User Experience (seamless mobility, speed, stability, security, and service) framework guarantees resident satisfaction, safety, and productivity. We prioritize providing solutions that “just work” while delivering the necessary security, scalability, and financial benefits behind the scenes.
  
  
• Shifting the value equation: Our ultimate objective at OpticWise is to transform digital infrastructure from being a burdensome overhead cost and a source of headaches into a powerful retention tool and profit center for property owners. By leveraging our solutions, property owners can change the value equation of their real estate investments, creating an asset that enhances tenant satisfaction, boosts retention rates, and generates additional revenue streams.

OpticWise simplifies the complexities of technology for property owners. Our commitment to seamless experiences, tailored solutions, and shifting the value equation empowers owners to focus on their core business while we handle the digital infrastructure. Together, we create a future where technology seamlessly supports their business objectives and drives long-term success.

Q. Can you briefly explain the various solutions offered by OpticWise? How has innovation helped the company improve its services?

OpticWise is all about enhancing the digital experience within today’s modern workplaces and multi-family residential buildings. We’ve distilled this experience into the 5S^® User Experience, characterized by seamless mobility, security, stability, speed, and service. By embedding these vital components into the user journey, both property owners and tenants reap the rewards. We empower property owners to effortlessly deliver the 5S^® User Experience, which not only saves tenants time, headaches, and money but also generates NOI for property owners.

Of unique and major importance, the OpticWise Ultimate Privacy Policy is a cornerstone of the 5S^® offering. We guarantee that no personal data is ever collected, stored, or shared.

Innovation is ingrained in our DNA; it’s a cornerstone of our core values. We embody it in our daily operations, making it an integral part of every aspect of our work.

Q. How vital has it been to build a skilled team at OpticWise? How does the company promote innovation within its team?

Our team is the heart and soul of our company, infusing it with a unique and exceptional spirit. Our collective values not only define our culture but also underscore the immeasurable value our team brings to our clients. In addition to thriving on technical excellence, agility, and accountability, we pride ourselves on living and breathing these values.

Q. What are OpticWise’s plans for the future?

We envision OpticWise as a catalyst for pushing the boundaries of what is possible and fostering benefits that transcend our client base.

Our future is defined by ambitious growth, innovation, sustainability, and a steadfast commitment to making a positive impact not only for our clients but also the broader industry and society. We see OpticWise as a global leader, shaping the landscape of digital infrastructure and setting new standards of excellence.

Brief biographies of the Chief Executive Officer and the founder and Chief Systems Architect

Bill Douglas serves as the Chief Executive Officer of OpticWise, bringing a wealth of entrepreneurial experience to the helm. With a remarkable track record of initiating, selling, acquiring, and exiting multiple businesses, Bill has consistently demonstrated keen business acumen. His achievements have earned him recognition on prestigious growth lists, including INC. Bill graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering from Georgia Tech, a foundation that has undoubtedly influenced his strategic thinking. Additionally, he completed the Entrepreneurial Master’s Program at MIT, further enhancing his entrepreneurial skills. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill is a proud father of two adult sons. He is a man of diverse interests and enjoys activities such as fitness, biking, skiing, volleyball, and golf. These pursuits reflect his active and adventurous spirit, mirroring his approach to both business and life. https://www.linkedin.com/in/billdouglas/

Drew Hall is the visionary founder and Chief Systems Architect of OpticWise. With profound expertise in network architecture, Drew has a demonstrated history of guiding teams in the creation and management of high-security, low-latency network applications on a global scale. Drew’s academic foundation includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from Baylor University, providing him with the solid knowledge base to excel in his field. Outside of the professional realm, Drew is a devoted father to two young sons. He relishes quality family time and finds joy in pursuits like mountain biking and the art of performing improv comedy. These diverse interests reflect his passion for both the adventurous and creative aspects of life. https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewhall33/

“We believe the proper application of technology within your property can unlock greater returns than anything you’ve ever done.”