Top 10 Tenant Experience Platforms: Features, Pros, Cons & Comparison

Introduction

Tenant Experience Platforms are digital software solutions designed to connect the people who occupy a building with the physical space and the services provided by the property owners. At their heart, these platforms act as a central hub on a smartphone or computer, allowing tenants to interact with their environment in a way that was never possible before. Instead of relying on manual paperwork, physical keys, or phone calls to a front desk, a tenant can use a single app to enter the building, book a conference room, order lunch from a local café, or report a leaky faucet. These tools are becoming incredibly important because the modern workforce and residential market now expect a high level of digital convenience. In a world where we can order a car or a meal with one tap, people expect their workplace or home to be just as responsive and easy to navigate. By using these platforms, property owners can transform a cold, physical structure into a vibrant, service-oriented community that keeps people happy and engaged.

The importance of these platforms lies in their ability to bridge the gap between property management and the daily lives of occupants. They provide a wealth of data to building owners, showing which amenities are actually being used and which events are popular, which helps in making better business decisions. Key real-world use cases include touchless entry through mobile credentials, streamlined visitor management where guests receive a QR code for entry, and community engagement through localized newsfeeds and events. When you are looking for the right platform, you should evaluate it based on several key criteria. First, the user interface must be incredibly simple and inviting, or people simply won’t use it. Second, it needs to integrate perfectly with existing building systems like elevators, security gates, and HVAC. Third, the platform should offer robust data analytics so you can measure the return on your investment. Finally, security is paramount; the tool must handle personal data and building access with the highest levels of encryption and privacy standards.

• Best for: These platforms benefit commercial office landlords, large residential developers, corporate real estate managers, and flexible workspace operators the most. They are ideal for organizations managing mid-to-large portfolios where manual communication is no longer efficient and where tenant retention is a top priority.
• Not ideal for: They may not be necessary for owners of very small, single-unit properties or buildings with very few tenants where personal, face-to-face interaction is already highly effective. They are also not a great fit for organizations that lack the staff to manage the digital content and engagement activities required to keep the platform active and useful.

Top 10 Tenant Experience Platforms Tools

1 — HqO

HqO is a leading enterprise-grade platform that focuses on creating a seamless digital connection between the building and the tenant. It is designed primarily for large-scale commercial landlords who want to offer a premium experience across their entire portfolio. The platform provides a highly customizable mobile app that acts as a remote control for the building, integrating everything from access control to local retail partnerships.

• Key features:
  • A powerful marketplace that connects tenants to local vendors and services.
  • Mobile access control that replaces physical keycards with a smartphone.
  • Detailed data analytics dashboard for landlords to track engagement.
  • Visitor management system that automates guest registration and entry.
  • Digital programming and event management tools to build community.
  • Resource booking for conference rooms, desks, and parking spaces.
  • Direct messaging and notification system for real-time building updates.
• Pros:
  • The platform is extremely scalable, making it perfect for global real estate portfolios.
  • It offers a very high level of customization, allowing for specific branding for each building.
• Cons:
  • The setup process is complex and usually requires a significant investment of time.
  • Because it is a premium solution, the cost may be out of reach for smaller property owners.
• Security & compliance: HqO maintains high standards including SOC 2 Type II compliance and uses industry-standard encryption to protect all user data and building access logs.
• Support & community: They provide a dedicated customer success team, an extensive knowledge base, and regular training sessions for building staff to ensure high adoption rates.

2 — VTS Rise

VTS Rise is a comprehensive tenant experience solution that was formed through the merger of industry leaders to provide a unified operations and engagement tool. It is designed for both commercial and residential properties, focusing on making building operations more efficient while keeping tenants happy. It stands out for its deep integration into the VTS ecosystem, which many landlords already use for leasing and asset management.

• Key features:
  • Integrated work order management that allows tenants to report issues instantly.
  • Package tracking and notification system for residential and office mailrooms.
  • Amenity and space booking with integrated payment processing.
  • Real-time building sensor data integration for occupancy tracking.
  • Customizable tenant surveys to gather feedback on building services.
  • Emergency notification system to alert all occupants in seconds.
  • Mobile-first visitor management with QR code access.
• Pros:
  • The integration with the broader VTS platform provides a “single pane of glass” for property management.
  • It effectively combines operational tools (like work orders) with experience tools (like events).
• Cons:
  • The mobile app interface can occasionally feel a bit cluttered due to the high number of features.
  • Some users have reported that initial configuration with legacy hardware can be challenging.
• Security & compliance: VTS Rise is SOC 2 compliant and follows strict GDPR guidelines for international users, ensuring all personal and operational data is handled securely.
• Support & community: They offer a robust support portal, dedicated onboarding specialists, and a large community of real estate professionals who share best practices.

3 — Equiem

Equiem is one of the original pioneers in the tenant experience space, focusing heavily on content, community, and commerce. It is designed for landlords who want to go beyond just “building apps” and actually provide a curated lifestyle for their tenants. The platform excels at editorial content and organizing events that make the building feel like a community rather than just a place to work.

• Key features:
  • A sophisticated content management system for building news and lifestyle articles.
  • Integrated e-commerce platform for ordering coffee, food, or dry cleaning.
  • Detailed tenant sentiment analysis through regular polling and feedback.
  • Flexible space management for booking desks and meeting rooms.
  • Community forums where tenants can interact with each other.
  • Advanced analytics that track not just app usage, but actual tenant satisfaction.
  • Loyalty and rewards programs to encourage local spending.
• Pros:
  • It is arguably the best platform for building a genuine sense of community through content.
  • The reporting tools provide very deep insights into tenant behavior and preferences.
• Cons:
  • It requires a dedicated content team or “community manager” to get the most value out of it.
  • The focus is more on engagement than on deep hardware/operational integrations.
• Security & compliance: Equiem follows international data privacy standards and provides secure, encrypted login methods to protect user identity and financial transactions.
• Support & community: They provide extensive marketing support to help landlords launch the platform and offer ongoing strategy sessions to improve engagement.

4 — Host by CBRE

Host is an enterprise-grade tenant experience platform created by the world’s largest real estate services firm, CBRE. It is designed for major corporations and global landlords who want to provide a “concierge-like” service to their employees and tenants. The platform focuses on high-touch hospitality, blending digital tools with human service to create a premium work environment.

• Key features:
  • Concierge service integration for personalized requests and assistance.
  • Smart meeting room booking that includes catering and IT support options.
  • Wayfinding and indoor navigation to help people find their way in large complexes.
  • Employee wellness and fitness tracking integrations.
  • Predictive analytics to anticipate tenant needs before they arise.
  • Global consistency so a tenant has the same experience in any building in the portfolio.
  • Unified communications for building-wide announcements.
• Pros:
  • The platform is backed by the massive resources and real estate expertise of CBRE.
  • It is specifically designed to meet the high standards of Fortune 500 companies.
• Cons:
  • It can be difficult to implement for property owners who do not use CBRE for management.
  • The platform is highly sophisticated and may be “overkill” for simple buildings.
• Security & compliance: Being an enterprise solution, it meets the highest security requirements including ISO certifications and strict global compliance standards.
• Support & community: Users benefit from CBRE’s global support network and a highly professional implementation team that understands corporate needs.

5 — Spaceti

Spaceti is a technology-focused platform that places a heavy emphasis on smart building hardware and IoT (Internet of Things) integration. It is designed for landlords and corporate occupiers who want to use data to optimize how their space is used. Spaceti is unique because it often includes its own sensors to track things like air quality, temperature, and actual desk occupancy in real-time.

• Key features:
  • Real-time occupancy tracking for desks, rooms, and common areas.
  • Environmental monitoring for CO2, temperature, and humidity levels.
  • Indoor navigation and wayfinding using mobile Bluetooth technology.
  • Flexible desk and parking booking with live availability maps.
  • Workplace analytics that show exactly how space is being utilized over time.
  • Mobile access control and visitor management.
  • Integration with building management systems (BMS) for climate control.
• Pros:
  • It provides some of the most accurate data on space utilization in the industry.
  • The focus on environmental health is a huge selling point for modern, “green” buildings.
• Cons:
  • The reliance on hardware sensors means the initial installation cost can be higher.
  • It is more focused on “smart building” metrics than on “community” and social engagement.
• Security & compliance: Spaceti uses end-to-end encryption for all sensor data and is fully compliant with GDPR and other relevant privacy regulations.
• Support & community: They offer excellent technical documentation and a support team that specializes in hardware and software integration.

6 — Sharry

Sharry is a specialized tenant experience platform that focuses heavily on the “access” and “parking” side of the building experience. It is designed for modern office buildings that want to eliminate plastic keycards and paper parking permits in favor of a 100% mobile experience. Sharry is known for its sleek design and its ability to integrate with a huge variety of different hardware brands.

• Key features:
  • Best-in-class mobile access control using Bluetooth, NFC, or QR codes.
  • Advanced parking management system with license plate recognition.
  • Visitor management system that integrates with office reception tablets.
  • Building-wide digital signage and newsfeed management.
  • Tenant surveys and feedback tools.
  • Support for “shared” spaces and flexible office zones.
  • Integration with enterprise identity providers like Azure AD.
• Pros:
  • The user interface is very modern and feels like a high-end consumer app.
  • It is a leader in parking management, which is a major pain point for many buildings.
• Cons:
  • It doesn’t have as many social or “community-building” features as platforms like Equiem.
  • The focus is narrower, so you might need other tools for deep operational management.
• Security & compliance: Sharry is SOC 2 Type II compliant and offers SSO (Single Sign-On) integration to ensure secure and easy access for corporate employees.
• Support & community: They provide professional onboarding and a dedicated technical support team that is highly regarded for its problem-solving abilities.

7 — Chainels

Chainels is a tenant experience platform that was specifically built for mixed-use developments, shopping centers, and retail districts. It is designed to manage the complex communication between a landlord and dozens (or hundreds) of different retail tenants. While it can be used for offices, it truly shines in environments where the “tenants” are actually businesses with their own staff.

• Key features:
  • Specialized communication tools for retail staff and store managers.
  • Sales reporting tools where tenants can submit their daily or monthly figures.
  • Maintenance request system designed for commercial retail units.
  • Document management for storing leases, insurance, and safety certificates.
  • Community newsfeed for sharing marketing events and center-wide promotions.
  • Access control for delivery areas and staff parking.
  • Feedback loops between tenants and the center management team.
• Pros:
  • It is the most effective tool for managing large retail and mixed-use environments.
  • It simplifies the “sales collection” process, which is traditionally very manual.
• Cons:
  • The feature set is very retail-focused, so it might lack some “office-specific” amenities.
  • It is not as focused on the individual consumer as it is on the business-to-business relationship.
• Security & compliance: Chainels follows strict European data privacy laws (GDPR) and provides secure, tiered access levels for different types of users.
• Support & community: They offer a high level of personalized support and are known for working closely with center managers to improve local operations.

8 — Witco

Witco (formerly known as MonBuilding) is an all-in-one platform that caters to offices, co-working spaces, and even co-living environments. It is designed to be a “plug-and-play” solution that is easy to set up and manage. Witco is highly modular, meaning you can start with just one or two features (like room booking) and add more as your building grows.

• Key features:
  • Room and desk booking with a simple, visual interface.
  • Community management tools including a newsfeed and event calendar.
  • Work order and maintenance request tracking.
  • Integrated “Concierge” for booking services like cleaning or massages.
  • Document sharing for tenant handbooks and safety manuals.
  • Messaging system for direct communication between tenants and managers.
  • Visitor registration and access management.
• Pros:
  • The platform is very easy to use and does not require extensive technical knowledge.
  • Its modular nature makes it very cost-effective for smaller portfolios or startups.
• Cons:
  • It may lack some of the deep, enterprise-grade hardware integrations found in more expensive tools.
  • The analytics are useful but not as deep as those found in Spaceti or HqO.
• Security & compliance: Witco is GDPR compliant and uses secure data hosting centers to ensure that all tenant information remains private and safe.
• Support & community: They offer a very friendly support team and provide a library of templates to help you set up your building app quickly.

9 — Mallcomm

Mallcomm is a high-powered platform specifically designed for the management of shopping centers, airports, and major retail destinations. It is built to handle the unique challenges of large-scale public spaces where communication between management, tenants, and security is critical. It focuses on operational efficiency and safety in environments with high foot traffic.

• Key features:
  • Critical incident reporting and emergency mass-communication.
  • Operations management including security checks and cleaning logs.
  • Sales data collection and tenant performance tracking.
  • Marketing and promotional tools for center-wide campaigns.
  • Staff discount and loyalty program management.
  • Training and onboarding modules for retail staff.
  • Resource booking for loading docks and common area spaces.
• Pros:
  • It is incredibly robust and can handle the needs of some of the largest shopping malls in the world.
  • The safety and security features are far more advanced than those in standard office platforms.
• Cons:
  • The interface is designed for professional use and can feel a bit technical or “heavy.”
  • It is not intended for small offices or residential buildings.
• Security & compliance: Mallcomm meets rigorous international security standards and provides detailed audit logs for all security and operational activities.
• Support & community: They offer a world-class support team with experience in major infrastructure and retail management.

10 — SpaceOS

SpaceOS is a modern platform designed for the future of the flexible office. It is built for landlords who want to offer “Flex-Space” or co-working within their traditional buildings. The platform focuses on the “User Journey,” making sure that the process of finding, booking, and using a space is as smooth as possible for the end-user.

• Key features:
  • Advanced booking engine for desks, meeting rooms, and flexible offices.
  • Integrated billing and payment system for “pay-as-you-go” services.
  • Community engagement features including an event calendar and newsfeed.
  • Mobile access control and smart locker integration.
  • Service marketplace for ordering food, drinks, and office supplies.
  • Real-time availability maps for all building resources.
  • Tenant portal for managing memberships and invoices.
• Pros:
  • It is the best choice for anyone looking to run a “Flex-as-a-Service” model in their building.
  • The integration between the booking engine and the payment system is seamless.
• Cons:
  • It is very specialized for flexible space, so it might not be the best fit for traditional long-term leases.
  • Some of the features might be too complex for tenants who just want a simple building directory.
• Security & compliance: SpaceOS is SOC 2 compliant and follows high-level data protection protocols to secure user payments and personal information.
• Support & community: They offer a highly responsive support team and have a community of “flex-space” innovators who share ideas on the future of work.

Comparison Table

Evaluation & Scoring of Tenant Experience Platforms

We evaluate these platforms based on a weighted rubric that reflects what matters most to property owners and tenants. This ensures that a tool isn’t just “pretty,” but actually works effectively in a real-world building environment.

Which Tenant Experience Platforms Tool Is Right for You?

Choosing the right platform is a strategic decision that depends on your building type and your long-term goals. If you are a solo owner of a single high-end building or a small boutique office, you likely want a tool that is easy to set up and focuses on making the tenant feel special. Witco or Savvy (often used for smaller portfolios) are great because they aren’t overly complex. If you want your small building to feel like a high-end community with lots of events and news, Equiem is a fantastic choice even for single assets.

For small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) or local property managers, the focus is often on efficiency. You need a tool that handles the day-to-day work orders and visitor management without requiring a whole IT department to run it. VTS Rise is excellent here because it combines those “gritty” building operations with a nice tenant app. If your property has a significant parking component or if you want to move away from physical keys entirely, Sharry should be at the top of your list.

Mid-market and enterprise landlords with dozens of buildings in multiple cities need a platform that is highly scalable and standardized. HqO is the leader for these large corporate portfolios because it provides a consistent brand experience whether the tenant is in London or New York. If you are managing a massive retail center or a public infrastructure project like an airport, Mallcomm is the only tool on this list that truly understands those specific, high-stakes operational needs.

Finally, think about your budget and feature depth. Are you looking for a “premium” experience where cost is less of a concern than hospitality? If so, Host by CBRE is the best path. Are you more concerned with “smart building” metrics and saving money on energy? Then Spaceti is your best bet. Always look for a provider that is willing to show you a clear path to ROI—whether that’s through higher rents, better tenant retention, or lower operating costs. Most of these tools offer demos, so try to see how the software feels on a real phone before you sign a contract.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What exactly is a tenant experience platform?

It is a mobile app and web portal that connects people who live or work in a building with the space itself. It allows them to do everything from opening doors to booking meeting rooms and receiving building news.

2. Will this replace my property management software?

No, it usually works with it. While property management software handles leases and accounting, the tenant experience platform handles the daily interaction and service side of the building.

3. Is it hard to set up these platforms?

It depends on the tool. Simple apps like Witco can be ready in a few weeks, while deep enterprise platforms like HqO that integrate with elevators and security can take several months to fully launch.

4. How much do these platforms usually cost?

Pricing is typically based on the square footage of the building or the number of units. Most providers charge a monthly subscription fee, plus an initial setup or integration fee.

5. Do tenants actually use these apps?

Adoption rates vary. If the app provides a “must-have” feature like building access (opening the front door), usage is very high. If it’s just for “community news,” you will need a community manager to keep people coming back.

6. Can these platforms help me save money on energy?

Yes, platforms like Spaceti that use IoT sensors can show you which parts of the building aren’t being used, allowing you to turn down the heat or lights in those areas.

7. Are these platforms secure?

Top-tier platforms use the same level of security as banking apps. Look for tools that are SOC 2 compliant to ensure your data and building access are protected.

8. What if my building has old hardware?

Most modern platforms use “API” connections or small hardware pieces to talk to older systems. A good provider will do a “site audit” to see what can be connected.

9. Can I customize the app with my own building’s brand?

Yes, most enterprise tools allow for “white-labeling,” which means the app will have your building’s logo, colors, and name in the app store.

10. Do I need to hire extra staff to manage the app?

While not always required, having a “community manager” to post news, organize events, and respond to tenant requests will greatly increase the success of the platform.

Conclusion

The rise of tenant experience platforms represents a major shift in how we think about real estate. We are moving away from a world where a building is just a physical box and into a world where a building is a service that people “subscribe” to. These tools are the key to that transformation, giving property owners the ability to offer a higher level of hospitality while gathering the data they need to run their buildings more efficiently. Whether you are looking for a simple way to manage room bookings or a high-end concierge service for a global headquarters, there is a platform on this list that can meet your needs.

When you are ready to make a choice, remember that the most successful buildings are those that put the user first. The best platform is the one that makes the tenant’s day just a little bit easier and makes them feel more connected to the community around them. Take the time to evaluate your building’s unique needs, talk to your tenants about what they actually want, and choose a partner that is committed to your long-term success. By investing in the tenant experience today, you are ensuring that your building remains competitive, occupied, and profitable for many years to come.

Ultimately, choosing the right tool is about finding a balance between advanced technology and human connection. A building is still a place for people, and the best software is the kind that fades into the background, making every interaction feel natural and effortless. Start small if you have to, test the features that matter most, and watch how a digital layer can breathe new life into your physical space. The future of real estate is here, and it is all about the experience.