Optix vs. Archie: Which is Better for Coworking Spaces?

Whether you’re buying software for the first time or looking to migrate from your platform provider, choosing the right coworking software is a big decision.

In this article, we’ll dive into the key differences between Optix and Archie when it comes to managing coworking and flex spaces. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each platform so that you have all of the information you need to make an informed decision.

What is Archie?

Archie is a coworking management platform based out of Montreal, Canada. They serve primarily hybrid workspace operators as well as some coworking spaces with a suite of tools including a web portal, mobile app and external visitor management platform.

What are the strengths of using Archie for coworking spaces?

Archie has many strengths when it comes to helping coworking space operators run their business.

• Visitor Management: Archie is best known for their Visitor Management application which offers a smooth check-in flow for visitors and front desk staff.
• Clean design: the interface of Archie products is more modern and clean compared to some other alternatives.
• Strong CRM tools: Archie boasts a “360 degree” view of your customer, allowing users to manage leads and tours in one system.
• Robust security: with many security features and certifications, Archie offers a secure platform suitable for managing a remote or corporate team.

In general, Archie offers a relatively complete tool for coworking spaces to manage their members, without being overly complex.

What are the weaknesses of using Archie for coworking spaces?

Many people choose Archie because it offers a modern platform at an affordable price point. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when considering Archie for your coworking space.

• Limited customization and flexibility: those who do not fit the traditional coworking model are likely to run into issues with Archie, as the platform offers limited opportunities for customization outside of coworking
• Unintuitive user experience: while the platform looks nice, it has been described as difficult to navigate and unintuitive from a functionality perspective
• Lack of reporting features: Archie’s reporting and analytics features are basic compared to other platforms on the market
• Missing community features: because of their focus on the web portal, Archie’s mobile app is missing key community features commonly found in other platforms

Because Archie is newer to the coworking market and has a primary focus on hybrid workspaces, some operators may find parts of the product lacking for their needs.

Who is Archie best suited for?

Given its strengths and limitations, Archie is best suited for small, one location operators of traditional coworking spaces who are looking for a no frill ways of running their business.

Optix vs. Archie

Optix and Archie differ in several key areas. Let’s break down each one in more detail below.

1. Mobile application and white-labeling

While Archie does offer a mobile application for members along with white-labeling capabilities, it is not reported often by users in reviews and does not appear to be as popular as their web portal.

In contrast, Optix focuses solely on the mobile experience for members. Optix was the first coworking software to offer mobile apps for coworking spaces and they remain committed to the mobile experience to this day. This commitment to mobile means Optix offers the #1 mobile app in the industry along with exceptional white-labeling capabilities for users to enjoy.

2. Visitor Management

One area that Archie is well-known for is its Visitor Management application. This external application can be used to automatically check users into the space, manage packages and deliveries, and increase overall security. This app is designed to serve hybrid workspaces who are managing a large number of visitors, but the app is sometimes used by coworking spaces as well.

Optix also offers a Visitor Management application as an add-on included in select plans. Like Archie, the Optix Visitor Management application operates on an external tablet and is used to manage visitors and guests coming in and out of coworking spaces. Unlike Archie, Optix visitor management is designed to be used specifically by coworking and flex spaces. The application can be used by coworking spaces to help generate leads for future marketing communication as well.

Check out this list of the best visitor management systems for coworking spaces to learn more.

3. Flexibility and customization

Archie is designed to serve traditional coworking spaces and hybrid workspaces. While it serves these business models well, there is limited room for flexibility and customization outside of what you would typically find in these settings (rooms and desks).

Optix is designed to be modular with non-specific resource booking. With this, users can make anything in their space bookable, whether that is a desk and room or a golf bay and kitchen. For this reason, Optix is considered one of the best flex space management platforms for alternative use spaces such as beauty salons and shared kitchens.

4. Automation capabilities

While all coworking software platforms offer automation capabilities (billing, invoicing, booking, etc.), the degree to which they do so varies widely. Archie’s automation functionality centers around the actions a member takes in a space—making a booking and getting invoiced for it.

In contrast, Optix offers end-to-end automation that can extend across both the admin and member experience. This includes tour follow-ups, lead nurturing, invoice follow-ups, and more. Because automation is built into the core product itself, Optix is heavily favored for operators who want to automate every aspect of their business or even run their business remotely.

5. CRM and lifecycle management

Archie boasts a “fully integrated client lifecycle management” with the ability to create proposals, analyze churn risk, and manage your sales pipeline. With this, Archie has some of the more robust CRM functionality available amongst coworking software providers today, making it an attractive choice for young coworking spaces looking for a lightweight CRM for their business.

Optix offers many of the same features with an added layer of automation—-that way you can automate lead management and nurturing, funnel stages, and automated email communication for upselling and check-ins. This enables users to utilize Optix much as they would a CRM like Pipedrive or HubSpot.

6. Support and onboarding

Information on Archie’s customer support is positive, but limited. Optix offers a number of support initiatives to help users learn more about Optix including bi-weekly learning sessions with the CS team, group onboarding, white-glove onboarding for select plans, and a support specialist available during business hours.

7. Who they serve

With all that being said, Archie is best suited for boutique operators of traditional coworking spaces who want a modern-looking platform without any bells and whistles. Optix is best suited for operators of coworking and flex spaces who are looking for an easy-to-use system that will automate their day-to-day operations.

Summary of Optix vs Archie

Archie stands out for its modern interface, strong visitor management features, and built-in CRM tools, making it a viable option for small, traditional coworking spaces seeking a simple solution. However, its limitations in customization, automation, and multi-location support may hinder growing or non-traditional operators.

Optix, on the other hand, emphasizes flexibility, automation, and a mobile-first experience. It offers deeper customization, extensive automation capabilities, and robust support resources—making it an ideal choice for operators of diverse space types who prioritize scalability and efficiency.

Ultimately, the decision between the two depends on the specific needs of the operator. It’s up to you to decide which will be the better fit for your business.