Analysis

Hardware:

Computer hardware is defined as anything that can input, process, output, and store data. Hardware includes desktop computers, laptops, cell phones, tablets and servers. Many types of hardware are used to support Hines Living operations. Many of the software applications used by Hines Living run on devices such as computers, tablets and smartphones. Elevated Living can be accessed on a computer to manage the application as well as on a smartphone. Both managers and building residents utilize these systems on their own hardware. Hines Living provides employees with computers and tablets to perform their daily tasks. The hardware provided is used to log packages and track maintenance requests. The concierge team may also assist new applicants with leasing information on a tablet or computer at the location. The hardware used by Hines Living has proven to be effective in day to day operations and is not in need of any changes. (Nicole)

CPUs:

What CPUs are used? 
The CPU used at Hines are high performance processors such as intel, AMD EPYC. As for the building controls, they use the internet to control the HVAC, lighting and security. For example ARM Cortex

What type of storage and how much? 
The type of storage is on SSD cards. They hold (1-2 TB) per stations. The manager's storage is Petabytes(PB) for Large scale data. The building data is then collected from either sensors such as temperature or energy used to determine less or more. (Marc)

Software:

What is software?
Software is a set of instructions or programs that tell a computer what to do. It allows us to perform tasks like managing data, creating documents, or even running a building’s operations. There are two main types: system software, like operating systems that manage hardware, and application software, which helps users complete specific tasks.

What types of operating systems does Hines use to support the processes we are studying?
At Hines, the operating systems in use depend on the specific tools and devices involved. For example, the Elevated Living platform, which supports resident services like rent payments and work orders, likely runs on a cloud-based infrastructure compatible with Windows and mobile operating systems (iOS and Android). Microsoft Teams, another tool used for communication and collaboration, operates on Windows, Mac, and mobile systems, making it flexible and accessible for staff.

What is application software?
Application software refers to programs designed for specific tasks or user needs. These can range from general-use applications like Microsoft Office to more specialized tools created for unique business operations.

What are some vertical, horizontal, and customized applications that Hines uses?

• Vertical Applications: These are specialized for a specific industry or purpose. For Hines, Elevated Living and Entrata ResidentPortal are great examples. Both platforms are tailored for property management and resident services, handling tasks like rent collection, work orders, and amenity reservations.

• Horizontal Applications: These are broader and can be used across different industries. Microsoft Teams is a good example at Hines. It’s used for communication, task management, and collaboration across various teams.

• Customized Applications: Hines also relies on customized solutions to address its unique needs. For instance, while Saflok isn’t a fully integrated system, it is tailored for managing access control in properties.

Is the software effective?
While the software Hines uses is effective in specific areas, there are clear limitations due to the lack of integration between systems. For example, Saflok doesn’t communicate with Elevated Living, creating inefficiencies in processes like package management and maintenance coordination. This separation causes delays and extra work for staff, which could be solved by implementing a more unified solution like an ERP system.

Despite these issues, tools like Microsoft Teams and Elevated Living are valuable for keeping operations organized and residents satisfied. With further integration and optimization, the software could be even more effective (Pamela).

Virtualization:

Virtualization enables you to make a virtual version of an operating system, server, storage device, and network resource instead of a real one. It makes it possible to run several virtual environments or resources on one physical computer, increasing productivity, adaptability, and resource usage. In addition to helping to optimize hardware resources, virtualization can be used for a number of things, such as enhancing system performance, streamlining administration, or establishing system isolation. The three types of virtualization are Desktop Virtualization, Network Virtualization on,Server virtualization. Desktop virtualization is Desktop virtualization that permits users to run desktop operating systems in virtual environments, which can be housed in the cloud or on central servers.   In terms of centralizing desktop environment management and enabling desktop access from any location, this offers flexibility. Remote users can interact with their virtual desktops just like they would with a physical computer.Network virtualization is the process of abstracting physical network resources to produce independently customizable and manageable virtualized network environments. Because of this, networking resources may be used more effectively, and complicated networks can be scaled and managed more easily. Server visualization is A physical server that can be divided into several virtual servers, each running a different operating system and set of programs, through the process of server virtualization. This reduces the need for numerous physical servers and improves hardware utilization by enabling multiple virtual servers to operate on a single physical server.The real estate industry benefits from virtualization in a number of ways, such as cloud computing, data storage, property management, and facilities management. Hines Living's internal IT systems use server visualization. Using server virtualization, Hines builds virtual computers on actual servers to manage internal IT systems. This enhances the flexibility and utilization of hardware resources, increasing the efficiency of their infrastructure. Hines living uses virtualization in order to improve their company and make it better.(Gabby)

Software and Applications:

At Hines Living properties, open-source software applications are currently not utilized. Instead, they rely on proprietary or tailored software solutions designed to address specific operational needs, such as property management, resident services, and maintenance tracking. Examples of software frequently used in this context include Elevated Living, which enhances the resident experience; Entrata, a comprehensive property management platform; and Saflok, which focuses on access control and security systems.

For the properties under focus Lenox and Quinn specific applications are utilized to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. These applications are neither open-source nor hybrid but are designed to cater to the unique demands of property management. The choice of software, whether open-source, proprietary, web-based, native, or hybrid, depends on factors like the organization’s objectives, technical requirements, and budgetary considerations.

Understanding the differences between open-source and proprietary software and their respective use cases highlights the importance of selecting the right tools to meet specific operational goals. By choosing solutions aligned with their needs, organizations like Hines Living can optimize performance and deliver superior services. (Haddy)

Technology:

Managing residential buildings, enhancing tenant experiences, and guaranteeing the long-term viability of its properties are possibly the main priorities of Hines Living, a part of the international real estate investment and development firm Hines. Hines Living may be able to use modern technologies that improve sustainability, resident services, and property management to stay competitive and streamline operations.One of the latest technologies that Hines Living may find useful is smart building technology, which combines sensors, gadgets, and systems to monitor and manage building operations in real time, improving tenant comfort, security, and energy efficiency. From trash management and security to heating and lighting, IoT-enabled gadgets may improve it all. Another new technology that Hines Living can benefit from is Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality. Potential renters or purchasers can virtually tour properties or experience spaces before they are constructed thanks to augmented reality and virtual reality, two game-changing technologies in the real estate industry. These immersive devices improve marketing efforts and expedite the lease process. Potential renters or purchasers can virtually tour properties or experience spaces before they are constructed thanks to augmented reality and virtual reality, two game-changing technologies in the real estate industry. These immersive devices improve marketing efforts and expedite the lease process. Potential renters can take immersive virtual reality tours of flats or entire residential complexes, which is especially helpful for distant prospects or in places where in-person tours are challenging.When floor plans are visualized in real space using augmented reality, potential tenants can view virtual furniture or renovations to see how the property might appear after modifications. (Gabby)

BYOD Policy:

Hines has its own devices and servers to control the building. They don't not allow employees to use their cellular device whatsoever. Their BYOD policy is short to none because employees don't have that option. Hines would benefit from enhanced security, centralized management, and lock features. Data and much more would be protected. Hines do now use the MDM software. Incorporating the MDM software is costly and they aren't in desperate need of it. (Marc)