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Strata councils

Published March 4, 2026

Questions to Ask Before Choosing Strata Software

A practical list of questions BC strata councils can ask before choosing strata management software, from adoption to access to fit.

Key takeaways

The best strata software is the one your council can maintain and your residents will actually use, so weigh simplicity as heavily as features.

Ask how the tool handles access and permissions, document search, resident requests, and council handover before you commit.

Match the tool to your management model, whether you are self-managed or working with a property manager.

Why the right questions matter

Choosing strata management software is less about finding the longest feature list and more about finding a tool your volunteer council can keep running and your residents will actually use. Before you book demos or sign up, it helps to agree as a council on a short list of questions. The answers will tell you far more than a marketing page. Here are the ones worth asking.

Questions about everyday use

  • Can residents use it from a phone without downloading an app?

  • How long does it take a new resident or council member to learn?

  • What happens to the information when council membership changes?

Questions about documents and access

  • Can owners find current bylaws, minutes, and forms without emailing council?

  • Can you search across documents, or only browse folders?

  • Who can see what, and how are private council records kept separate from resident information?

Questions about requests and communication

  • How are resident requests submitted, tracked, and followed up?

  • Can you tell at a glance what has been handled and what is still open?

  • How are notices sent, and can you confirm residents received them?

Questions about fit and cost

  • Does it suit your size and management model, whether self-managed or working with a property manager?

  • What is the total cost, and what is included?

  • How does onboarding work, and can you start with council before inviting residents?

If you are still deciding whether a dedicated tool is worth it at all, start with what strata management software is and, for smaller communities, the best software for a self-managed strata.

Where OpenStrata fits

OpenStrata is a BC-focused strata management platform for volunteer councils, owners, and residents. It is built around the everyday experience of the strata itself, with documents, requests, notices, and information in one accessible place, and it can support self-managed stratas or work alongside an existing property manager. It is a fair option to run the questions above against.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most important thing when choosing strata software?
For volunteer councils, adoption usually matters most. A simple tool that residents and council will actually use beats a feature-rich one that sits unused. Weigh ease of use alongside the feature list.
Should a self-managed strata use different software than a managed one?
The core needs are similar, but self-managed stratas often lean on the tool more heavily for records, requests, and continuity. Either way, choose something that fits how your strata is run today.
Should we rule out tools that require an app download?
Not automatically, but ask early, because it affects adoption. Some tools, including OpenStrata, are designed to work in a web browser so residents do not have to install anything.
Can we try it with just council first?
Often yes. Many councils start with core documents and council members before inviting residents. Ask each provider how onboarding works and whether a phased start is possible.

Trying to make strata management easier?

OpenStrata helps councils organize documents, requests, notices, and resident communication in one place.

Note: This article is general information only and is not legal advice. For legal questions, consult a qualified strata lawyer or the relevant BC government resources.

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