L.A. Fire Support Jan16

L.A. Fire Support

Photo courtesy Direct Relief The catastrophic fires in and around Los Angeles could potentially be one of the country’s most expensive natural disasters and are already among the deadliest in state history. Yardi is supporting two non-profit organizations, Direct Relief and World Central Kitchen, that are aiding the evacuation and recovery efforts for victims. Over 150,000 residents were forced to evacuate, at least 24 people have died (at time of publication, rescuers are continuing to search for missing persons), and thousands of homes, businesses and other structures have been damaged or destroyed. Yardi announced this week that its nonprofit arm is making a contribution of $250,000 to Direct Relief and World Central Kitchen. “These remarkable organizations have, once again, jumped to action and are already providing timely support and resources (water, food, N95 masks, and much more) to the first responders and individuals displaced by the fires,” said Sarah Bridich, director of corporate philanthropy at Yardi. Direct Relief Direct Relief, a Goleta, CA-based disaster relief and medical assistance organization, is tirelessly providing essential aid. Direct Relief’s mission is to protect residents, support healthcare providers, and address the immediate needs of those affected. The ongoing nature of the fires underscores the need for sustained support and resources. “Direct Relief has made more than $100 million available in medicines and medical supplies, including 2.3 million high-quality N95 respirators, to community health centers, free and charitable clinics, and other healthcare partners in affected areas,” said Tom Roane, director of corporate engagement and strategy for Direct Relief. Roane continued: “Direct Relief stockpiles wildfire-related kits, PPE, inhalers, and other medical and emergency products in its Strategic Emergency Stockpile so that it can immediately respond to the needs in this type of emergency.”  In addition to delivering highly needed medical aid, Direct Relief is providing emergency operating grants to community safety-net clinics serving evacuated residents and others impacted by fires to sustain ongoing care during the active crisis and support their staff (some of whom have lost their homes). You can support Direct Relief’s fire response efforts here. World Central Kitchen World Central Kitchen (WCK) mobilized across the Southern California region to provide immediate relief, working with restaurant and food truck partners to provide comforting meals. In Santa Monica, WCK is working with Gordo Hibachi, cooking delicious rice and noodle dishes to support first responders working tirelessly to control the blaze and support evacuation efforts. Actress Jennifer Garner recently joined WCK teams in Southern California to support first responders and residents impacted by the wildfires. “Her empathy embodies the spirit that drives our mission—it’s these fast-moving efforts of neighbors that are making a difference in the lives of families impacted by fires,” said the organization. Check out the locations where WCK distributes free hot meals to the public in greater L.A. You can donate directly in support of their work here. Yardi has consistently contributed to Direct Relief and World Central Kitchen in the aftermath of natural disasters and other crises, including the war in Ukraine. If you’re interested in supporting these efforts, you can find more information on the company’s philanthropic efforts on yardi.org and learn how to...

Acquisition News Jan15

Acquisition News

Leading real estate technology provider Yardi® announced today that it has acquired Deskpass (U.S.) and Hubble (U.K.) to meet the evolving and diverse needs of workspace users. As workspace policies continue to evolve post-pandemic, businesses require flexible access to space that best suits their way of working – whether they are remote-first, hybrid, or fully office-based. The acquisitions mark a significant step forward in aligning commercial buildings with the increasingly agile needs of office users. Yardi, as a service provider to building owners, operators and occupiers for 40 years, welcomes the Deskpass and Hubble teams to meet the evolving needs of professionals and businesses. These acquisitions enhance existing Yardi Commercial and Yardi® Kube solutions as the technology backbone for flexible workspace operators, building owners and occupiers to support a wide variety of use for flexible workspace. Deskpass is a leading booking platform in North America for coworking and flexible workspace. Deskpass’ global network of partner locations enables individuals and enterprise clients to instantly book desks, meeting rooms and private offices on demand. Hubble is the U.K.’s leading online marketplace for coworking and flexible workspace. The platform enables individuals and employers to book on demand or flexibly contract for coworking desks, private offices, managed offices, part-time offices, meeting rooms and event spaces. Hubble customers include forward-thinking SMEs and corporates in the U.K. and worldwide. Yardi platform CoworkingCafe is the most comprehensive global marketplace for listing and booking coworking and flexible workspaces. With over 21,000 locations listed, CoworkingCafe provides operators unparalleled marketing reach for their spaces and seamless integration with Yardi Kube’s space management platform to support contracting, membership management, billing, accounting and reporting. Yardi Kube is the largest global platform for managing coworking and flexible office operations by powering end-to-end contracting, membership management, billing, accounting, reporting and more. The Yardi Kube platform seamlessly integrates with CoworkingCafe to provide unparalleled marketing reach, lead generation and on-demand revenue insights. Bringing together market leaders in Deskpass, Hubble and CoworkingCafe to expand the size, quality and ease of booking across the marketplace is critical to meet the increasing need for flexible space driven by professionals and corporations. Yardi will continue to collaborate with space providers and technology partners to deliver an industry-leading experience. “We are excited to build a global infrastructure to connect office users with space from the best office owners and coworking operators,” said Robert Teel, president of Yardi Global Solutions. “The Deskpass and Hubble teams bring a wealth of customer and industry knowledge about flexible marketplaces to help us service this evolving customer need.” “We’ve spent the last decade building Hubble into the UK’s leading marketplace for flexible workspace. As a business, our vision has always been to enable businesses to find workspace solutions that are accessible and adaptable to their teams’ unique ways of working. We’re incredibly excited to continue to scale this vision as part of Yardi,” said Tushar Agarwal, CEO and co-founder of Hubble. “Joining the Yardi family is a monumental step forward for Deskpass,” said Sam Rosen, CEO and co-founder of Deskpass.“Yardi’s vision for the future of our industry, paired with their global reach and deep relationships within the real estate industry, provides the perfect platform to supercharge our mission of offering businesses and individuals access to high-quality, flexible workspace solutions, anytime and...

Are Drones Delivering?

Nine years ago, an article in this space asserted that deliveries of products to customers using drones might be “just around the corner.” Google, Amazon and Walmart were among the major retailers developing unmanned aerial vehicle fleets; an Amazon vice president predicted that, pending resolution of various regulatory and technology issues, drone deliveries would become “as normal as seeing a delivering truck driving down the street.” Has the vision articulated in 2016 come to pass? Statistics indicate that drones are indeed becoming more commonly used for delivering products to homes or other locations. PwC estimates that about 5 million business-to-consumer drone deliveries occurred worldwide in 2024. The global drone delivery market, valued at $530 billion in 2022, is expected to grow more than 42% annually between 2023 to 2030, with the U.S. share estimated to reach $830 million this year. “I think after what has been about a decade of a slow start, drone delivery seems to be accelerating both in its technological capabilities as well as the policy and regulatory environment in the United States,” Costa Samaras, director of Carnegie Mellon University’s Scott Institute for Energy Innovation, told NBC News last year. In 2023, for the first time, the FAA authorized commercial drone operators to fly their aircraft long distances without visual spotters in the line of sight. Drones can deliver a range of products, from prepared meals and groceries to medicines and retail items, while avoiding traffic congestion that traditional delivery vehicles must cope with. They also generate fewer emissions than road vehicles, can reach remote or hard-to-access locations, and are useful for such ancillary applications as surveillance, agriculture, aerial photography and environmental monitoring. Concerns surrounding drones include potential job losses for delivery workers, privacy issues, neighborhood noise and the potential for misuse by malicious actors. Growth of the drone delivery market will continue to be driven by such factors as increasing consumer demand for fast delivery, the desire to reduce carbon emissions and advancements in drone technology. “With the increased demand for drone delivery services globally, various countries are implementing favorable policies to support the operation of drones in their airspace,” says Mordor Intelligence, a business market intelligence and advisory firm in Hyderabad,...

Meet Senior CRM

Have you explored RentCafe Senior CRM, our prospect-centric customer relationship management solution for senior living? Senior CRM has fresh and exciting features designed to provide seamless experiences for both sales counselors and prospective residents.  Meet Senior CRM At Yardi, we prioritize listening to client feedback. We’ve taken thoughtful comments on Senior CRM — and gathered insights on what CRM functionality is missing in the industry — to create a fresh, enhanced product. Senior CRM includes an attractive user interface, new features and evolved communication capabilities. Note that we kept well-loved dashboards, but we’ve added a whole new level of functionality and made things more user-friendly. There’s a range of exciting workflows in the product, but as a highlight, Senior CRM clients have access to: A Communication hub: Send and manage all communications with prospective residents including calls, texts and emails from one convenient location. Lead stages: Unlock lead stages functionality that guides sales teams through the entire prospect journey. Benefit from seamless automation for common tasks at every stage, from lead all the way to move-in. A prospect overview page: See the prospect overview at the click of a button with a centralized, easy-to-access page that presents impactful data. Intuitive dashboards: Manage your digital forms in one place with a comprehensive dashboard that shows every document and its various stages. Enjoy additional dashboards for managing waitlists, occupancy and more. Campaigns: Benefit from new functionality that makes it easy to send email and text blasts, then track successes such as click and open rates. You have access to premade templates, or you can create campaigns on your own. Electronic leasing: Save time on paperwork and streamline your move-in workflow with electronic leases. Enjoy simplified workflows for every step of the move-in process. Move-in readiness: Review...

Resolutions to Habits    Jan10

Resolutions to Habits   

Every new year starts with a “new year, new me” plan, which typically fades by the Spring. Let’s discuss how to turn resolutions into habits for an energy-efficient and sustainable 2025. Sustainable resolutions for an energy-efficient year begin with making practical resolutions that anyone can adopt to make their home or lifestyle more energy-efficient. Start by decluttering the physical space with an energy-efficient mindset. Get rid of unused electronics, which can reduce phantom load. Phantom loads sometimes referred to as vampire loads, are any electricity an appliance or device consumes, even when turned off. Reduce phantom load by always remembering to turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Printers, gaming devices, computer monitors, TVs or cable systems pull electricity from the grid even when not operating. Always have devices grouped on a power bar or strip. Recycle or donate old appliances and opt for energy-efficient ENERGY STAR®-rated replacements. Wash clothes in cold water and line dry when possible. Washing clothes in warm or hot water risks shrinking them. Install programmable or smart thermostats. Smart thermostats allow owners to control the temperature using settings on their smart devices. “An ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostat offers more convenience, energy savings, insight, and control than manual or programmable thermostats. Homes with high heating and cooling bills and unoccupied homes for much of the day can save approximately $100 a year with an ENERGY STAR®-certified smart thermostat.” Reorganize spaces to optimize airflow and heating efficiency. Change air filters out regularly and tune HVAC equipment yearly. Seal heating and cooling ducts. “Sealing and insulating ducts can improve the efficiency of heating and cooling system by as much as 20 percent,” according to ENERGY STAR®. Workplace energy goals. Businesses and employees should collaborate on energy-saving resolutions to promote sustainability. To reduce office energy use, encourage hybrid work schedules. Upgrade to energy-efficient office lighting and HVAC systems. Implement office-wide reminders to power down equipment at the end of the day. Margaret Mead, the esteemed environmentalist, once stated, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” This powerful sentiment rings true for social movements and businesses determined to combat climate change. Host a few sustainability challenges to engage employees in green practices. The power of teamwork is key here, as it engages employees in sustainability and involves them in business carbon reduction efforts. For example, create “green teams” responsible for developing and implementing sustainable practices within the team or department. Organize friendly competitions to encourage employees to adopt eco-friendly habits such as reducing paper usage, carpooling or minimizing waste. Recognize and reward participants for contributing to a positive and engaging ecosystem, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility. Form sustainable energy routines to build new habits. If daily habits do not change, you will never have a new year. Start with setting reminders or automating tasks like adjusting the thermostat when leaving home. Use apps to track electricity consumption and set usage goals. Energy Tracker on Apple IOS or Google Play is a good app to easily add, manage and evaluate meter readings and record electricity, water, gas and heat consumption. Make it fun for the family and create a rewards system for household members who consistently practice energy efficiency. One must better understand the psychology to break old habits. Habit formation is the process where repeated actions become automatic over time. This happens because the brain creates neural pathways that make these behaviors easier to perform without much thought. When a behavior is repeated enough, the brain learns to conserve energy by turning it into a habit. Patience is needed to overcome bad habits since solidifying them takes 18 to 254 days. Focus on consistency and avoid getting discouraged if instant results don’t happen. Keep tracking progress, stay committed and give yourself and others grace and time to let the...

Wireless Power Transfer...

Wireless power transfer, or WPT, uses electromagnetic waves to transmit electrical energy from a power source to an electrical device without physical connectors or wires. By eliminating the need for traditional power cables for a charging pad, this technology provides a convenient and efficient way to charge devices. And as it becomes more mature, its utility could expand beyond smaller appliances such as smartphones, earbuds and wearable devices to televisions, water heaters and other large appliances. “WPT has great potential to revolutionize the way people charge and has aroused great interest in academia and industry,” says the Association for Smarter Homes & Buildings, an international not-for-profit industry group for connected home and intelligent building technologies. “Integrating WPT into buildings and various household appliances can greatly improve the reliability, convenience and safety of power supplies in our lives.” WPT’s advantages eliminated cable plugging and unplugging; the ability to complete transfers through wood, glass and other materials; reduced exposure of wires and connectors to water and other corrosive elements; and no need for battery replacements on various IoT devices. “Wireless power is already making us rethink our societal and business infrastructures. [It is] one investment that doesn’t follow the law of diminishing returns. The more devices that have wireless power capabilities, the more value we have,” asserts Informa TechTarget, a Boston-area technology services provider. Limitations of WPT include generally slower and less efficient power transfers than traditional wired charging, with some energy being lost as heat during the process; limited range between the device and its power source; high implementation costs; and less efficiency for electric vehicles and other applications that require high energy transfer rates. Wireless power transfer is not designed for high-speed data transmission, which is normally the realm of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and cellular...

Fil Southerland Jan08

Fil Southerland

Fil Southerland, director of health care solutions at Yardi, has been reappointed to the Health Information Technology Advisory Committee (HITAC). The U.S. Comptroller General and head of the U.S. Government Accountability Office announced the reappointment of Southerland, along with five others, to serve a second three-year term through 2027. A wealth of experience in health information technology Southerland continues to bring a wealth of experience and perspective to the committee as a strong advocate for implementing health information technology in senior living. Southerland has been involved with the senior living and long-term and post-acute care (LTPAC) industries for over 18 years. At Yardi, he leads initiatives in electronic health care records and interoperability. He was founder and CTO of ALMSA, Inc., a cloud-based electronic health provider in the assisted living space that was acquired by Yardi in 2012. The HITAC was established in 2016 under the 21st Century Cures Act. The committee provides recommendations on policies, standards, implementation specifications and certification criteria to the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy (ASTP)/Office of the National Coordinator (ONC). It advises on the implementation of health information technology that advances the electronic use of health information. “I’m honored to serve another three years on HITAC working with this amazing group of colleagues,” Southerland says. “We have a platform to discuss pressing issues and advise the ASTP/ONC. I’m pleased to bring my experience advocating for electronic access, exchange and use of health information in the LTPAC industry.” The next three years We are excited to see what the next three years will bring and are confident that Fil Southerland will continue to make significant contributions to the field. Congratulations, Fil, on your reappointment! Learn more about the HITAC. To learn how integrated senior living software transforms resident care, explore...

Forth Valley Giving

Forth Valley Giving, also known as NHS Forth Valley Endowments Funds, is a Yardi-supported nonprofit in Stirling, Scotland, established in 2004. Its primary focus is to secure donations for services, activities and amenities that complement the core work of NHS Forth Valley and enrich patient experiences. All donations are held separately from the money used to provide day-to-day NHS services and are spent on donors’ wishes. “Forth Valley Giving is the official charity of NHS Forth Valley.  All donations to the charity are used for the benefit of patients and staff, and every donation is recorded and acknowledged by the charity,” explained Craig Holden, fundraising manager for Forth Valley Giving. Yardi’s funding is crucial in providing additional comforts and amenities for NHS patients and staff, which core NHS funding does not provide. This support from Yardi has significantly enhanced the quality of care and comfort for those in need. Forth Valley Giving is committed to becoming an even more robust charity and increasing the level of donations to the charity. Forth Valley Giving operated a Christmas Appeal during the holidays, providing gifts and outings for its most vulnerable patients. “The Endowment Committee Trustees have formally recorded their gratitude and thanks for Yardi donations,” said Holden. NHS Charities Together Forth Valley Giving’s partnership with NHS Charities Together, the national charity for the National Health Service, has been a game-changer. This collaboration has generated £447,636 over the last four years, enabling the delivery of more than 60 projects benefiting NHS patients, staff, volunteers, and the broader community across the Forth Valley. This shows the power of collaboration and the collective impact we can make when we work together. This has included the installation of outdoor play and recreational facilities, the provision of support structures for patients...

High Value

Some real estate professionals are using drone technology to gain a competitive edge. Drones, which are unmanned aerial vehicles equipped with high-resolution still and video cameras, can give potential buyers or investors a comprehensive view of a property and its surroundings. This constitutes “a unique perspective that traditional ground-based photography cannot [offer], providing comprehensive and engaging visuals that can significantly enhance real estate marketing efforts,” says Luxury Presence, a real estate marketing service provider in Austin, Texas. Less costly than helicopter or airplane flybys, drone-based photography can highlight such features as nearby lots, amenities and shopping areas that aren’t easily encompassed from ground level. “Drone video can make buyers feel like they’re really at a property, even when they’re on the other side of the world,” according to drone tech provider DJI of Shenzhen, China. Some studies indicate that listing agents who use drones increase their deal closings by 68%. “Properties marketed with aerial images not only stand out in listings but also tend to sell much faster, providing a clear competitive advantage in the fast-paced real estate market,” asserts Fox Homes, a Fairfax, Va., residential real estate agency. Drones can also illustrate the interiors of residences and commercial buildings, producing “one cohesive video that gives viewers a realistic sense of the house,” according to The Drone Life, a Medford Lakes, N.J., operator that supports construction, conservation and other projects. They’re also useful for inspections and for revealing maintenance needs on roofs and other hard-to-reach areas of a property. And “building managers will be able to meet project objectives more efficiently and quickly if sophisticated photography is used to scan construction sites and drones are used to follow activities throughout the construction lifecycle,” says SkyQuest Technology Group, a global technology services provider based in...

2024 Yardi Highlights

As 2024 comes to a close, let’s take a look and reflect on Yardi’s achievements and accomplishments. Here are a few of the highlights.   A Milestone Anniversary 2024 was a milestone year for Yardi as we celebrated the company’s 40th anniversary. Clients that attended our Yardi Advanced Solutions Conference (YASC) events and employees worldwide received a special anniversary silver coin. These commemorative coins signify the milestone anniversary and mark Yardi’s four decades of real estate industry leadership. We look forward to another 40 years of providing outstanding products, services and support to our valued clients. Glassdoor Employees’ Choice Award Starting 2024 with a bang, Yardi was again named a winner of Glassdoor’s 16th Employees’ Choice Awards, honoring the Best Places to Work 2024. This recognition is evidence of the positive work environment and culture we have collectively built at Yardi, making each of us a part of this success. The Glassdoor Employees’ Choice Award is based solely on the input of employees who voluntarily provide anonymous feedback by completing a review about their job, work environment and employer on Glassdoor, the worldwide leader in insights about jobs, work environments and companies. “We are humbled to be included with so many great organizations and by the consistent, positive support of our global employees, which resulted in this honor,” said Kevin Yardi, vice president at Yardi. “For over 40 years, we have achieved steady growth by taking care of our customers, employees and communities. If you are looking for a great place to grow your career, Yardi is hiring in many offices worldwide.” Find career opportunities at careers.yardi.com. ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year In the spring, Yardi was honored to receive the 2024 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy for the sixth consecutive year since 2019. The Sustained Excellence Award, presented to Yardi for the fourth time this year, is a prestigious acknowledgment of the company’s consistent leadership and ongoing commitment to energy efficiency in real estate. “We are proud to have played a pivotal role in benchmarking and certifying buildings across the industry and worldwide in 2023. As a witness to our clients making progress toward and achieving their efficiency and reporting goals, we continue to advocate for the value of the ENERGY STAR program for building owners and managers,” said Joe Consolo, industry principal at Yardi. Forbes Cloud 100 Streak Continues In the summer, Yardi was named again to the prestigious Forbes Cloud 100 list, the definitive ranking of the top 100 private cloud companies in the world, published by Forbes in partnership with Bessemer Venture Partners and Salesforce Ventures. Yardi was a member of the inaugural Cloud 100 in 2016 and was No. 36 this year, making the list for the ninth straight year. “We’re honored that Yardi continues to rank among the top private cloud companies worldwide,” said Joel Loewen, vice president of cloud services at Yardi. “Since the inaugural list, this inclusion has reflected the continual efforts of our employees to create innovative and impactful solutions for our customers. We take pride in being one of the oldest companies on this prestigious list as well as one of the few that has no external capital.” Hurricane Helene Relief In the Fall, Yardi was there to help hundreds affected by Hurricane Helene, which made landfall in the Big Bend area of Florida, ravaging parts of Florida, Georgia, Tennessee and the Carolinas with flooding, storm surge and dangerous winds. Yardi pledged $250,000 to Direct Relief and World Central Kitchen for post-hurricane relief. These funds enabled both organizations to provide crucial emergency medical supplies, food, and water to those in need, demonstrating Yardi’s dedicated support for the affected communities. Our contribution made a significant difference in the lives of hundreds affected by Hurricane Helene, showcasing our commitment to social responsibility and community support. Sarah Bridich, Yardi’s director of corporate philanthropy,...

Winter Walks Jan01

Winter Walks

What better way to celebrate the holidays than enjoying yourself outdoors? Get out of the winter blues and SAD this winter season and explore how to celebrate a festival of winter walks. Enjoy a sense of freedom and the benefits of being outdoors Take this holiday season to enjoy the wonders of nature and get together with family and friends. Winter walks bring individuals and groups together to enjoy walking and are a great way to be active. Did you know walking is the most popular exercise in the United States? The average walking speed is 3.1 miles per hour. The average distance a person walks is about 75,000 miles during their lifetime. Walking helps boost your mood by increasing blood flow to the brain. Walking ten miles per week, instead of traveling by vehicle, would save 500 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions each year! Winter walk adventures The holidays can be overwhelming and stressful! Walking has immense healing powers and is so great for you. Take this opportunity to walk more. Winter walks offer a break from the hustle and bustle. If you want to be more involved in fitness, create a challenge, such as walking a certain distance or number of days each week and include a downloadable tracker. Most smartwatches include outdoor walking apps that track elevation, speed and distance. If you prefer to walk solo, embrace the silence and have a reflective winter walk for the soul. The unique tranquility of winter walking can inspire introspection. Walking in the quiet stillness of winter reduces anxiety and enhances focus. While walking, do some mindfulness exercises such as deep breathing and connecting with the surroundings, such as focusing on the crunch of snow underfoot. Bring a small notebook and jot down thoughts...

Yardi Senior Living Clients

As we ring in the new year, we’re celebrating the community cheer of our senior living clients! We hope these highlights of positive stories from the 2024 holiday season fill your cup of kindness and inspire you for 2025. Decking the halls at Radiant Senior Living Radiant Senior Living shared a bright and joyful video on social media from The Village Senior Living in Tacoma, Washington. Residents and team members decorated the “It Takes a Village” tree with ornaments from their personal collections, which Radiant describes as bringing their family traditions to life. “We believe in creating an atmosphere for our team that encourages them to bring their whole selves to work, and the ‘It Takes a Village’ tree demonstrates that value beautifully!” Singing joyous all together at Maplewood Senior Living Maplewood Senior Living communities host several festive gatherings, shared on social media including a tree-lighting ceremony at Maplewood at Orange and a piano performance at Maplewood at Princeton with an opportunity for everyone to join in singing. Making spirits bright at Sagora Senior Living At Sagora Senior Living, residents are treated to holiday-themed group events, festive dining experiences and holiday activities tailored to individual needs. Sagora shared a blog post about how Sagora celebrates and how others can make the holidays special for seniors. “At Sagora Senior Living, the holidays are a time to celebrate the spirit of community. Our dedicated team goes above and beyond to create festive experiences that bring residents together and make them feel at home.” Dressed in holiday style at Merrill Gardens Merrill Gardens chose to collect warm Christmas gifts for youth, as shared on social media: “We are honored to once again support Treehouse with the R.D. Merrill Holiday Hoodies Drive! We are gathering new hoodies for foster children and if you would like to help you can send hoodies to our office!” Happy New Year from team Yardi We hope this post gave you a spark of holiday magic, and we look forward to seeing what happy moments our clients and their communities share throughout 2025! If you’re looking to connect with us in the new year to learn more about how we support our clients, reach out...

2024 Yardi Office Celebrations

Yardi offices worldwide came together this month for fun-filled celebrations, bringing laughter, comfort, and joy to all. It was a time to relax, unwind, and enjoy the good times and successes of the year. Here’s a look at a few joyous moments we shared. Atlanta, GA had its holiday party at Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves baseball team. The group commemorated the occasion with food, drinks, dancing and a casino night. Using funny Yardi bucks to gamble that entered them with raffle prizes at the night’s end. Atlanta also participated in an ugly sweater party in the office. Congratulations to the winners: Gerald Valentine, Kenneth Middleton and Amber Brown! Cleveland, Ohio, also had fun with casino night with exciting games of Rush and Roulette, craps and blackjack. New York Long Island office made merry with a lavish dinner, lively dancing and talented caricature artists to capture the essence of Yardi employees. Some offices preferred more action for celebrations. Denver, CO office gave a few random “axe of kindness” at an axe-throwing club. Jacksonville, FL, office rolled over to the bowling alley with strikes and spares. In the UK, Milton Keynes and London offices rejoiced with shuffleboards and karaoke. Cluj-Napoca, Romania had a ball in an upscale Black and White Gala with 700 attendees, which made this party the highest attendance thus far. Sydney, AU our Sydney office also delighted in the holiday season with noteworthy guest Neal Gemassmer, vice president of international for Yardi. Dubai and Santa Barbara, Calif. celebrated Diwali several weeks ago. Founder and CEO Anant Yardi joined in Santa Barbara’s lunchtime festivities. That’s a wrap for #TeamYardi holiday celebrations for 2024. We hope you enjoyed the highlights as much as we did. Check out more photos on Facebook. As we bid farewell to this year, we eagerly look forward to more such joyous moments and achievements in...

Penny Ante Dec27

Penny Ante

As citizens of the U.S. and other nations increasingly adopt online solutions for payments, debate swirls over whether currency, especially coins, is needed at all. Cash was used for just 16% of in-person transactions in 2023, down from 26% in 2019, prompting calls for an economy based almost exclusively on online transactions or cryptocurrencies. With regard to coins, debate in the U.S. usually centers on the one cent piece. Detractors note that at 3 cents per, they are costly to make, racking up a loss of $86 million in 2023 alone; they comprise zinc and copper, whose mining and industrial use can have negative environmental and health impacts; they have virtually no standalone purchasing power; they’re heavy, with a dollar’s worth weighing about half a pound; and they’re underused, with an estimated 240 billion of them languishing in couches, jars, sidewalks, old clothing and elsewhere. COVID-19 intensified the debate, as coins became scarce when people stopped spending them at places like laundromats, banks, restaurants and shops. “The pandemic has made it much easier to imagine a world without coins, and already reinvigorated the movement to get rid of pennies. For banks, credit card companies and some Bitcoin advocates, the demise of each unit of cash would be welcome news,” the New York Times reported in November 2020. No new coins were minted in the United Kingdom in 2024, officials having decided that the estimated 27 billion coins in circulation were sufficient. New Zealand, Canada and other countries have dispensed with their lowest value coins altogether over the years. But pennies, which the U.S. Mint makes in Denver and Philadelphia, have their supporters too. Some argue that several American charities rely on penny donations. Others point out that eliminating coins or currency can burden people...

Saskatoon Search and Rescue Inc. Dec26

Saskatoon Search and Rescue Inc.

Sean Taylor photograph Saskatoon Search and Rescue (SSAR), a Yardi-supported nonprofit organization established in 2008 in Saskatoon, SK, is a 100 percent volunteer organization that provides emergency response services throughout the province. Established to assist local authorities in search and rescue operations, it specializes in locating missing persons, supporting community safety initiatives, and offering disaster response for major snowstorms, flooding and wildfires. Members are equipped with essential navigation, first aid and incident management skills. “In the past five years, we have been activated more than 70 times and spent more than 4,500 hours searching for missing persons. This does not include thousands of hours of training and administrative work to operate a thriving and 100% volunteer organization,” explained Sean Taylor, fundraising director, searcher, team leader, search manager, and electronic search specialist instructor for SSAR. SSAR’s mission is to protect lives and support those in distress through dedicated service and teamwork. It engages in public education and outreach programs, promoting awareness about safety and preparedness in their community. SSAR collaborates with local agencies, ensuring a coordinated response during crises. With a commitment to continuous training and improvement, SSAR aims to enhance its capabilities and foster community resilience, ensuring they are always ready to respond effectively. SSAR has just finalized a new strategic plan, and a few key priorities include: Increase team capacity to respond to emergencies while ensuring this effort can be sustained. Expand its capacities by involving more SSAR members in a broader range of activities, mentoring, succession planning, and encouraging committee involvement to help share the workload in fundraising and administrative tasks required to operate a busy and thriving volunteer organization.   Maintain existing partnerships and establish new ones with funding sources to ensure the long-term financial viability of SSAR as a leading search and rescue organization. Funding from Yardi significantly boosts the SSAR team’s ability to meet goals and priorities. The funds are allocated towards training programs and specialized equipment still needed for its Rapid Response and Wilderness First Responder Teams and any other new initiatives they decide to implement. This may include advanced training courses, essential gear, or certification/re-certification programs that enhance their skills and effectiveness. These funds also assist SSAR when applying for grants that require an investment from SSAR or to show that they have funding available from other sources to fund a larger project. “This is the third year in a row that Yardi has supported Saskatoon Search and Rescue,” said Taylor. He continued, “We are humbled by your generosity and the trust you have placed in us to use these funds wisely. Your belief in the importance of our work in the community means a great deal to us.”  Project Lifesaver In 2018, SSAR saw a need to be proactive and preventative regarding people who are prone to wandering (e.g., elderly people with Alzheimer’s or other dementia and younger people with autism), so they became a Project Lifesaver agency. Project Lifesaver clients wear a transmitter or “personal locator unit” on their wrist or ankle that emits an individualized radio frequency. If the client goes missing, the caregiver immediately notifies the police and identifies the person as a Project Lifesaver client. In addition to regular police resources, members of Saskatoon Search and Rescue who are trained and equipped “Electronic Search Specialists” are immediately activated. The missing person’s individualized radio frequency number is programmed into a receiver, and the search begins. SSAR strives to provide these services free of charge to prevent financial barriers for people needing this program’s benefits. Because of strong community and corporate support, they can continue to provide the services without cost to all of their clients. Saskatoon Search and Rescue is the province’s most prominent and busiest SAR team and the only Project Lifesaver agency.  “We currently have 46 clients wearing transmitters, and 125 families have been supported by the program since 2018. During this time, we have been activated 30 times...

MK Food Bank Dec25

MK Food Bank

Yardi, a global leader in property management software, understands the profound impact of supporting communities worldwide, especially those that feed the hungry. MK Food Bank, a Yardi-supported nonprofit established in 2004 in Milton Keynes, England, is a shining example. It distributes emergency food parcels to people in need, whether in crisis, homelessness or displaced by situations out of their control. Yardi’s support has been instrumental in this mission, inspiring hope and making a tangible difference in the lives of many. “This year, we have delivered over 23,122 food parcels, which shows that we have not had to turn anyone away from our services,” said Poppy Cheetham, fundraising and communications coordinator for MK Food Bank. MK Food Bank plans to continue its emergency services and encourage more people to use its Top Up Shop service. This service delivers cheaper food items to those in need, providing a sustainable solution to food insecurity. Yardi funding supports MK Food Bank in accomplishing those goals. “The incredible support from Yardi has been instrumental in our food support services this year, with over 500+ food parcels going out weekly. This means we can buy the food needed when donations have been down,” explained Cheetham. MK Food Bank has a lot of exciting plans and campaigns for 2025, including: The Logo Challenge Dominio Cereal line MK Can Quest Reverse Advent Food Parcel Challenge These programs help MK Food Bank deliver food parcel support to people in need in Milton Keynes throughout the year. See more details about the appeals and campaigns here. Volunteer Opportunities MK Food Bank offers volunteer sessions from October to January and has many other opportunities to join in fundraising events throughout the year. Your contribution, no matter how big or small, is invaluable and integral to...

Mädchenhaus Oldenburg e.V.

Mädchenhaus Oldenburg e.V. is a Yardi-supported NGO established in 1991 in Oldenburg (Oldb), Germany, that supports young girls to young adult women and engages in open youth work. Its work is crucial to challenge gender norms and raise awareness among girls and young women, empowering them. The organization is working on upgrades in digitalization and AI and promoting democracy. It will also be moving to a new location in the future. The generous funding from Yardi plays a pivotal role in Mädchenhaus Oldenburg e. V.’s mission. It facilitates crucial upgrades in software, hardware and furnishings. It supports staff training sessions and speakers, making a significant difference in the lives of the young girls and women they serve. “Both the girls and the staff are delighted with the support, which enables new purchases or outings that would not have been possible otherwise. We are grateful for any support of our efforts in this area,” expressed Doris Beel, Mädchenhaus Oldenburg e.V manager. Go Kart fun Mädchenhaus Oldenburg e.V. recently brought the girls aged 13-20 for an exciting day of go-karting. It was a thrilling experience for everyone as the girls pushed their limits on the track. One girl felt quite uneasy due to the noise, speed and intense atmosphere. However, by the final round, she was thrilled, growing increasingly confident and started driving closer to the limit, consistently improving lap times. She will make this go-kart a reoccurring experience! Volunteer Opportunities Mädchenhaus Oldenburg e.V. is committed to providing the highest quality of service. Currently, the organization has no volunteer opportunities, as it exclusively relies on professionally trained staff. Stay tuned for more inspiring non-profit profiles in the future. Find them at https://www.yardi.com/blog/category/giving. Yardi is Energized for Good! Visit www.yardi.org for more about our philanthropic...

Facility Management Disruption

When it comes to maintenance operations, continuity is king. A lag in response to work orders or skipped inspections can result in increased costs, equipment breakdowns and unhappy tenants. Over the long term, neglected buildings decrease in value, lose appeal and impact your bottom line. Fill the knowledge gap Research shows that the majority of facility managers stay in their jobs for fewer than four years. Losing the skills and knowledge of an experienced facility manager can disrupt your building operations and cost you time and money while you onboard new staff. A strategy to fill the knowledge gap as seasoned facility managers retire or leave for new opportunities will help the new workforce quickly develop necessary skills. Further, putting tools in place to streamline building operations will help prevent disruption and ensure continuity. As discussed in a recent Yardi white paper, Best Practices to Keep Facility Management on Track, managing the transfer of skills when experienced managers leave their positions will ensure your buildings continue to operate at peak performance, site visits are optimized and your tenants are satisfied. The right technology, including online learning, will enable you to automate maintenance operations as well as efficiently train and onboard new team members and ensure they quickly gain necessary knowledge and skillsets. Use tech for automation and more Manual and paper-based methods for maintenance operations are inefficient and error prone. Without a centralized database of maintenance information, there is no transparency so management oversight across properties is a challenge — you won’t know where to improve or how to save money. And when building management systems age, you face similar challenges with obsolete technology and miss opportunities to optimize processes and reduce costs. Over time, these issues decrease asset value. To follow best practices and solve these challenges, you need an integrated software platform. Yardi Facility Manager is a connected facility management solution that provides automation and advanced tools including AI to revolutionize maintenance processes and building management across your portfolio. Leverage all the benefits of connected software Facility Manager provides complete transparency and reduces costs while ensuring buildings operate at peak efficiency to make tenants happy. A few key benefits to consider: • Centralizes critical and historical information with easy access • Keeps equipment documents and preventive maintenance plans in one location • Maintains operating procedures for how work gets completed and automates transitions — including by role, so work is automatically transferred when an employee leaves and a replacement is assigned • Connects technicians via mobile apps so work orders and inspections are updated in real time Commit to ongoing process reviews Disruption is here. Facility management leaders should include regular process reviews as part of their strategy to optimize building operations and staff performance — along with reducing costs and investing in the right solutions to achieve greater impact including long-term asset value. Learn more about Yardi Facility...

Deck the Halls

The holiday season can be an excellent time for selling property as buyers are more serious and motivated to close by the end of the year. Let’s explore how to strike the right balance with holiday décor so it enhances cozy appeal without distractions. Keep it minimal Too much decoration can overwhelm buyers, making it hard for them to envision themselves there. Opt for a simple, elegant theme to avoid overwhelming space. Use a neutral color palette like whites, golds and silvers that complement the interior. Avoid personalized or themed decorations. Highlight key features Use decorations to draw attention to the property’s best aspects. For example, frame a fireplace with a simple garland or neutral stockings to emphasize their warmth and charm. Use string lights or wreaths to accentuate large windows or outdoor spaces. Add greenery or lights to a staircase railing for an elegant touch. Create a cozy atmosphere Use subtle scents like cinnamon, pine or vanilla to evoke warmth without overpowering the senses. Add cozy touches like warm blankets, a crackling fire or candles for an inviting ambiance. Avoid overly bright fluorescent lighting during the showing. Bonus tip: include soft holiday music for a sensory boost. Do not overdo outdoor décor Keep yard decorations tasteful—avoid inflatables or overly busy setups. These can distract from the property’s features and may not appeal to all buyers. A classic wreath, well-placed string lights and a tidy entrance with poinsettias can create excellent curb appeal. Ensure walkways and driveways are clear of snow, ice and debris for safety and accessibility. Avoid decorations that create a cluttered or cramped feeling in rooms Consider downsizing the tree to fit the space while adding a festive touch. Temporarily remove any furniture or items that could make the space feel...

Humane Society of Forsyth County Dec18

Humane Society of Forsyth County

Millions of dogs and cats are homeless and enter shelters daily in America. However, thanks to the tireless efforts of nonprofit organizations like the Humane Society of Forsyth County, these animals are given a second chance at life, inspiring hope and a brighter future for all. Yardi-supported nonprofit, Humane Society of Forsyth County (HSFC), was established in 1975 in Cumming, GA and is a no-kill animal shelter dedicated to rescuing and rehoming cats and dogs. HSFC provides critical services such as adoptions, low-cost spay/neuter clinics, preventative veterinary care and community education. This emphasis on education empowers the community to take responsibility for the welfare of animals, making a significant impact on reducing pet overpopulation. HSFC plans to boost adoption rates to save more animals, connect them with loving homes in the next year, and expand its programs to serve more pets and families in need. They will also enhance community outreach and education efforts to foster responsible pet ownership and strengthen the bond between pets and families. Funding from Yardi enables HSFC to provide essential medical care for animals through its Forever Friend Program, enhances its shelter facilities and expands its low-cost veterinary clinic services to reach more families in need. “We are incredibly grateful for Yardi’s generous support. It’s heartwarming to see a company so committed to community betterment, and their partnership directly impacts the lives of countless animals and families in our community,” expressed Amanda Porter, fundraising and development director for HSFC. Bridget’s Trek to Healing At just six months old, Bridget, a sweet boxer mix, came to HSFC underweight, malnourished, and with a broken leg that had atrophied after spending half her life confined to a Rubbermaid tub. She required extensive veterinary care, including X-rays, radiographs, and evaluations, which revealed additional fractures around her knee. Thanks to HSFC’s Forever Friend Fund, they were able to provide Bridget with the surgery she needed, including pins in her leg to ensure full use over time. With the dedication of her foster family, who worked tirelessly on her physical therapy, and the support of donors like Yardi, Bridget grew stronger every day. Today, she’s thriving in her forever home with a devoted “dog mom,” enjoying the life she always deserved. Many shelters would have given up on a pup like Bridget—but not HSFC. Their Forever Friend Fund ensures that animals like her get the second chance they need! Volunteer Opportunities Humane Society of Forsyth County welcomes volunteers to assist with animal care, participate in fundraising events like its Bark & Boogie Ball, or help with shelter maintenance. For more information, visit its website here or email them at [email protected]. “Every contribution, whether time, resources, or donations, makes a difference. By supporting HSFC, you save lives, create families, and foster a compassionate community,” said Porter. Find future non-profit profiles at https://www.yardi.com/blog/category/giving. Yardi is Energized for Good! Visit www.yardi.org for more about our philanthropic...