By Edan Ben-David, Content Manager at Technoso
As the Content Manager at Technoso, every day is a learning experience for me. Being relatively new to the company, I’m constantly seeking to deepen my understanding of the parking industry. And who better to guide me than one of Technoso’s very own leaders?
Enter Ami Kuchinshy, our esteemed Support Manager. With a remarkable 25 years in the car parks industry and 8 of those dedicated to Technoso, Ami’s expertise is unparalleled. He not only leads a team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about solving customer problems but also plays a pivotal role as a partner in our R&D team, contributing significantly to the company’s growth and success. His positive attitude, combined with his vast experience, makes him a cornerstone of Technoso’s journey to becoming a leader in the parking industry.
With this backdrop, I sat down with Ami for an enlightening conversation about the future of parking, the challenges, and the innovations that are reshaping this dynamic industry. The contents of which are below.
Q&A with Ami Kuchinshy
Edan: Ami, let’s dive right in. If we removed all technological or financial barriers, how would you describe your ideal parking industry?
Ami: I imagine a world where parking is simple and intuitive. A system that anyone can access through an app from anywhere. Users should have a hassle-free experience, from reaching the lot, to using any payment system they prefer. On the operator’s side, I envision a dashboard that provides any data point they need, down to the finest details, all available with just a click.
Edan: That’s quite comprehensive. But is this the pinnacle of what we can achieve in the parking industry?
Ami: There’s always room for growth. The future holds the promise of a self-automated AI parking system. This goes beyond just data. It’s about providing operators with actionable insights and a fully automated parking lot management system. Such a system would be responsible for every aspect of the lot, from error detection to dynamic pricing strategies. It’s crucial that this system is precise, ensuring the best decisions for maintenance, security, and return on investment.
Edan: Speaking of technology, what innovations are currently disrupting the industry?
Ami: The cloud is a game-changer. It’s revolutionizing how we install and manage systems. With the cloud, we can deploy a wireless system without the need for complex servers or intricate wiring. This approach not only simplifies installations but also enhances security. At Technoso, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this transformation.
Edan: But when choosing a system, aren’t parking operators primarily concerned about costs?
Ami: It’s a common misconception. While cost is a consideration, the focus is on return on investment, system uptime, and overall efficiency. Our cloud-based approach offers unparalleled flexibility. For instance, we can effortlessly set up an entrance in one city and an exit in another, all thanks to the cloud.
Edan: How does Technoso compare to other players in the industry?
Ami: Our cloud-first approach sets us apart. While others might be considering a move to the cloud, our data has been cloud-native from the start. This gives us a significant edge, especially when catering to large operations with complex requirements, be it malls, hospitals, or airports.
Edan: Can you provide a detailed example that showcases the complexities in the market?
Ami: Certainly. Let’s consider a hypothetical scenario inspired by places like the Azrieli Towers, a massive multi-level parking facility that connects three different buildings, including a hotel, mall, and offices. Such a facility would have a myriad of needs. They might want to offer a diverse range of discounts to visitors, have multiple subscription models for regular users, and manage designated zones for specific purposes. The system should be able to handle these complexities, ensuring smooth operations and optimal user experience. For instance, they might have various companies within their premises, each with a different number of allocated parking spots. The system should recognize when a company exceeds its allocation and act accordingly. Additionally, they’d want real-time monitoring to detect patterns like mall employees trying to exploit free hours or ensuring that nearby buildings don’t misuse their parking facilities.
Edan: And in the healthcare sector?
Ami: We recently collaborated with a major hospital, one of the largest campuses globally. Their requirements were extensive. They needed our system to integrate with their internal accounting and management systems seamlessly. With hundreds of different parking lanes and designated areas for staff, guests, emergency vehicles, and more, the system had to be robust and efficient. Lives are at stake, so smooth traffic flow and quick access are paramount. They also required real-time financial data integration, ensuring that every transaction is immediately reflected in their accounting systems. Beyond the hospital itself, there’s an entire city within the hospital grounds dedicated to employee housing. This adds another layer of complexity, as there are different parking needs and priorities for residents, visiting family members, and hospital staff.
Edan: As we wrap up, if you were to envision the ultimate future of the parking industry, what would it look like?
Ami: It’s all about automation, efficiency, and user-centricity. The first company to fully automate these processes, with zero downtime, will lead the industry. We’re proud to be on this path, but there’s always more to achieve. The future is bright, and with our cloud-first approach, we’re well-positioned to shape it.
My Conclusion
Parking, at first glance, might seem like just another mundane part of city life. But if you dig a little deeper, there’s a whole world of innovation and change waiting to be explored. Ami Kuchinshy gave me a glimpse into this evolving landscape, showing me that parking is about more than just finding a spot; it’s about creating a seamless experience for everyone involved. At Technoso, we are not just observing these changes – we are leading the charge. As we look to the future, it’s clear that the journey is just as important as the destination.
