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

Looking for your next coworking software platform? We’ve got you covered.

In this article, we’ll dive into the key differences between Optix and OfficeRnD when it comes to managing coworking and flex spaces. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each platform, paying close attention to their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision on which platform is best for you.

What is OfficeRnD?

OfficeRnD is a workspace management platform used by flexible workspaces like coworking spaces, as well as hybrid corporate offices. They offer two products to serve these two unique demographics:

• OfficeRnD Flex: designed to help coworking and flexible workspace operators run their business
• OfficeRnD Workplace: formerly known as OfficeRnD Hybrid, its designed to help companies manage their hybrid employees

In this article, we’ll focus on the strengths and weaknesses of using OfficeRnD Flex for coworking spaces.

What are the strengths of using OfficeRnD for coworking spaces?

OfficeRnD has a number of strengths that set them apart from other software platforms in the market.

• Comprehensive feature set: OfficeRnD is packed with tools, functionality and capabilities, offering a robust feature set to meet a variety of needs
• Advanced reporting capabilities: with their Looker integration, OfficeRnD offers advanced reporting and analytics capabilities baked into the platform
• Mature ecosystem and integrations: OfficeRnD offers strong native integrations with a number of popular tools used by coworking operators including Mailchimp and Kisi
• Enterprise capabilities: their wide range of features allow them to support enterprise coworking spaces and franchises

Similar to Nexudus, OfficeRnD offers a robust feature set and ample native integrations that can fit the needs of large enterprise coworking clients well.

What are the weaknesses of the OfficeRnD platform?

When it comes to using OfficeRnD to manage your coworking space, there are a few reported challenges to keep in mind.

• Steep learning curve: due to its extensive features, some users find that OfficeRnD takes time to learn, especially for teams without prior experience in coworking software. This can require additional training for new staff members
• Customization limitations for niche models: OfficeRnD is well-suited for traditional coworking operations but may offer fewer customization options for operators with unconventional or highly specialized business models
• Mobile user experience: some users have noted that the mobile experience can require multiple steps for common actions like booking or purchasing, and app performance may vary. This has led a few operators to prefer using the web portal instead
• Billing complexity: the platform’s flexible billing engine is powerful, but it may feel overly complex for smaller teams or those looking for a simpler setup
• Automation capabilities: OfficeRnD offers automation primarily through integrations with tools like Zapier, which may require additional setup or external workflows to achieve more advanced automation

While OfficeRnD offers a comprehensive and robust feature set, it can be difficult to learn and use, especially for operators who are new to coworking.

Who is OfficeRnD best suited for?

With all of this in mind, OfficeRnD is best suited for midsize to large coworking space operators, especially those running multiple locations. It’s ideal for teams with dedicated admin or tech staff who can manage the platform’s complexity and take advantage of its robust native integrations.

Optix vs. OfficeRnD

Though both Optix and OfficeRnD offer solutions to help coworking spaces run their business, they differ in several areas. Let’s break down each one in more detail below.

1. User experience

While some users appreciate OfficeRnD’s rich feature set, others report a learning curve that can require more onboarding. Once comfortable with it, the platform can sometimes be described as “clunky”. This was the case for Rachael and Deborah from Brooklyn Hourly Offices who switched to Optix from OfficeRnD after experiencing many challenges with the platform.

In contrast, Optix emphasizes intuitive design, which some operators find quicker to adopt. Because of its focus on exceptional user experience and ease of use, many operators find they can get set up with the system quickly and easily without having to spend too much time training their team. This is one of the greatest advantages to using Optix compared to most other coworking software on the market.

2. Automation capabilities

OfficeRnD and Optix both automate many of the day-to-day tasks of coworking spaces including invoicing, billing, and bookings. Optix takes automation one-step further by providing a native automation and workflow builder, similar to that of HubSpot or Zapier, directly in the Optix platform.

With this, coworking space owners and operators can automate more things they do each day — from lead management and invoice follow-ups to task management and tour follow-ups — all within the Optix platform. Optix stands out for offering native automation tools within the platform, something that many competitors rely on third-party tools to achieve.

3. Support and onboarding

OfficeRnD charges for onboarding packages, which may be a consideration for smaller operators. Aside from the paid support, many users report frustrations with the availability of OfficeRnD support, with one user saying, “support was often unresponsive even during critical issues.” For users who prioritize timely and responsible support, this is something to keep in mind.

In contrast, Optix includes personalized onboarding and is known for its responsive support, according to user reviews. One Capterra user shared, “I’ve never been so impressed by a customer support team and we use *a lot* of SaaS products.” Optix ranks 4.9/5 stars on Capterra for customer service, making it a leader of the industry in that domain.

4. Customization and flexibility

OfficeRnD Flex is designed to serve traditional coworking spaces with a standard model of renting rooms and desks. Though the platform can be customized to fit the needs of coworking spaces well, it may not offer the level of flexibility needed by niche or unconventional coworking models such as Brooklyn Hourly Offices. Operators who are looking to serve a specific demographic or who want more flexibility with their business model may find the tool to be too rigid.

The Optix platform is built to allow for a wide range of flexibility, which means the platform can be used by a number of different types of businesses beyond just traditional coworking spaces. For those with non-traditional business models or those who are looking to make equipment or other resources bookable by the hour, this can be a big plus.

5. Mobile application and white-labelling

Like many other coworking platforms, OfficeRnD offers a full white-labeled app experience, along with a branded mobile application for members. The app sits alongside a web portal and is used by members to book rooms, make payments, and engage with other members of the coworking community. 

Reviews of the OfficeRnD mobile app are mixed, with some saying their members rarely engage with it due to having a web portal. This could potentially lower overall engagement of the community.

Optix is praised by users for having the best coworking space mobile app in the industry. They were the pioneers of mobile applications for coworking spaces, and they remain so to this day. For those who know they want a mobile-driven experience that moves with their members, Optix can be a great choice. Optix does not offer a web portal, and many users report high engagement within the app as a result.

6. Who they serve

OfficeRnD is best suited for enterprise coworking spaces with multiple locations who are operating traditional coworking or executive office suites. Optix is best suited for coworking or flex spaces who like to experiment with their business model and want a forward-thinking solution to match their needs.

Summary of Optix vs OfficeRnD

Optix vs OfficeRnD: Which one is best for you?

Both Optix and OfficeRnD are great coworking software choices for budding businesses. The right solution for you will depend on the unique needs of you and your business model.

If you are operating 10+ coworking space locations and you need advanced analytics and reporting, then OfficeRnD could be a good choice. If you want a software that’s intuitive and easy-to-use and can fit a variety of business models, then Optix is the clear winner.

Want to learn more about how Optix can support the needs of you and your business? We’d love to chat.