
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
- 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.

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: OfficeRnD’s platform is feature-rich, but that can come at the expense of simplicity. New staff members or operators without technical experience may find it difficult to learn
- Rigid customization options: the platform is largely suited to traditional coworking spaces with less customization available for niche coworking spaces or untraditional models
- Clunky member experience (especially on mobile): booking a room or purchasing an item can take multiple taps, and app performance isn’t always smooth causing many operators to forgo the app entirely
- Complex billing system: while it offers a very flexible billing engine, it can be overly complicated for smaller spaces or simpler setups
- Limited native automation: OfficeRnD lacks native workflow automation features and relies heavily on Zapier to automate various functionality
While OfficeRnD offers a comprehensive and robust feature set, it can be difficult to learn and use, especially for boutique coworking space operators just starting out.

Who is OfficeRnD best suited for?
With all of this in mind, OfficeRnD is best suited for midsize to large coworking 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
Because OfficeRnD offers so many features and capabilities, it can be perceived as difficult to use, especially by new operators who are unfamiliar with coworking software. Many users report requiring extensive training to get started with (training that often comes at a steep price).
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.
“Everything was very complicated. It was hard for our users to use. There was just a lot of clunkiness.”Rachael Berezin, co-founder at Brooklyn Hourly Offices
Optix is known throughout the industry for its exceptional user experience and ease of use. Operators can get set up with the system quickly and easily without having to spend too much time training their team on how to use new software. 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 is the only platform on the market today that offers this level of automation within the tool, making it an ideal choice for those who want to automate their business.

3. Support and onboarding
The complexity of the OfficeRnD platforms means users often have to pay onboarding support starting at $400 for three sessions according to one Capterra user who described support as “pay-to-play”. This can be a significant additional cost for those just starting out.
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.
Optix in contrast is widely regarded as having exceptional customer support. 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 sometimes fails to meet the demands of many niche coworking spaces or those with unconventional business models, such as Brooklyn Hourly Offices. For 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-labelling 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 widely regarded as being a mobile-first platform with the best 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. Though Optix does not offer a web portal, 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.
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