Communication Services
Phone systems, email, messaging platforms, and tenant communication tools.
1. VOIP Phone System
1.1 Phone System Requirements
| Requirement | Priority | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Business Phone Number | MUST | Local 410/443 area code (Loudoun County) |
| Voicemail with Transcription | MUST | Read messages without listening |
| Mobile App | MUST | Answer from anywhere (owner-operated model) |
| Call Forwarding | MUST | Off-hours routing to personal cell or voicemail |
| Basic Call Logs | MUST | Record-keeping for business purposes |
| Auto-Attendant | OPTIONAL | Nice for professional image; not required at 18 suites |
| Video Conferencing | OPTIONAL | Useful for prospective tenant virtual tours |
1.2 Usage Profile
| Factor | Profile | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Primary User | Owner/manager | Single line operation |
| Call Volume | Low | Most tenant communication via text/email |
| Desk Phone | Optional | Mobile-first acceptable for owner-operated |
| Hours | Business hours | Voicemail active after hours |
| Call Types | Prospective tenants, vendors, occasional client inquiries | Not high-volume call center |
1.3 Vendor Comparison
Nextiva Core ($15/user/month) - RECOMMENDED
| Feature | Included |
|---|---|
| Unlimited calling US/Canada | Yes |
| Voicemail transcription | Yes |
| Mobile app (iOS/Android) | Yes |
| Desktop app | Yes |
| Video conferencing | Yes (included) |
| Auto-attendant | Yes |
| Call analytics | Basic |
| Contract | Annual for best rate |
Pros:
- Best price-to-value ratio
- Full feature set at budget price point
- Professional voicemail transcription
- Video meetings for virtual tours
Cons:
- Annual contract for best pricing
- May require port existing number (3-5 business days)
Ooma Essentials ($19.95/user/month)
| Feature | Included |
|---|---|
| Unlimited calling US/Canada | Yes |
| Voicemail | Yes |
| Mobile app | Yes |
| Virtual receptionist | Yes |
| Ring groups | Yes |
| Call logs | Yes |
| Contract | Month-to-month |
Pros:
- No annual contract required
- 100+ phone features
- Good for startup flexibility
- Established small business provider
Cons:
- Higher monthly cost than Nextiva
- Video conferencing on higher tiers only
RingCentral Core ($20/user/month)
| Feature | Included |
|---|---|
| Unlimited calling US/Canada | Yes |
| Voicemail transcription | Yes |
| Mobile/Desktop apps | Yes |
| Video conferencing | Yes |
| Integrations | Extensive |
| Uptime SLA | 99.999% |
| Contract | Annual |
Pros:
- Enterprise-grade reliability
- Extensive third-party integrations
- Strong uptime guarantee
Cons:
- Higher cost for features beyond single-user needs
- Enterprise features overkill for 1-line operation
- Better suited for multi-employee operations
1.4 Decision Matrix
| Factor | Weight | Nextiva Core | Ooma Essentials | RingCentral |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | HIGH | 5 | 3 | 3 |
| Feature Completeness | MED | 5 | 4 | 5 |
| Mobile App Quality | HIGH | 5 | 4 | 5 |
| Flexibility (No Contract) | LOW | 2 | 5 | 2 |
| Video Conferencing | LOW | 5 | 2 | 5 |
| Weighted Score | - | 4.6 | 3.6 | 3.8 |
1.5 Recommendation
Primary: Nextiva Core ($15/month)
- Single line sufficient for owner-operated model
- All required features included
- Best value for business VOIP
When to Add Second Line:
- Phase 8 noted manager hire at 93%+ occupancy
- Add second line when hiring part-time assistance
- Upgrade to multi-user plan at that time
1.6 Setup Requirements
| Task | Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Select VOIP provider | Pre-opening -4 weeks | Sign up for service |
| Port number or get new | -3 weeks | Porting takes 3-5 business days |
| Configure voicemail greeting | -1 week | Professional greeting recorded |
| Set up mobile app | -1 week | Test on owner's phone |
| Configure call forwarding | -1 week | After-hours routing |
| Test system | Pre-opening | Verify all features work |
1.7 Budget Summary
| Item | One-Time | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| VOIP Service (Nextiva) | $0 | $15-20 | $180-240 |
| Desk Phone (optional) | $50-100 | $0 | $0 |
| Headset (optional) | $30-75 | $0 | $0 |
| TOTAL | $0-175 | $15-20 | $180-240 |
2. Tenant WiFi & Connectivity
2.1 Service Offering
| Aspect | Specification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| WiFi Included in Rent | Yes | Part of premium positioning (like free laundry) |
| Dedicated Tenant Network | Yes | Separate from guest network |
| Business Reliability | Required | Supports tenant booking, payments, operations |
| Marketing Value | HIGH | "High-speed WiFi included" in suite amenities |
Strategic Decision: Free WiFi is a value-add that supports premium positioning established in Phase 4. Unlike competitors who may charge extra, Luxa includes WiFi as standard amenity.
2.2 Network Design
Reference: Network architecture from Phase 11-02 infrastructure specification.
| Network | VLAN | Purpose | Security |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luxa-Tenant | VLAN 20 | Suite WiFi for tenant devices | WPA3 |
| Luxa-Guest | VLAN 30 | Client waiting area | WPA2 |
| Management | VLAN 10 | Access control, cameras, NVR | WPA3-Enterprise |
Tenant Network Configuration
| Setting | Value | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Rate Limit | 50 Mbps per client | Fair share across 18 suites |
| Client Isolation | Enabled | Tenants cannot see each other's devices (privacy/security) |
| Device Allocation | ~5 devices per suite | Phone, tablet, payment terminal, laptop, music |
| Band Steering | Enabled | Prefer 5 GHz for better performance |
Guest Network Configuration
| Setting | Value | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Rate Limit | 25 Mbps per client | Sufficient for waiting clients |
| Captive Portal | Optional | Terms acceptance; professional appearance |
| Password | Posted in reception | Simple access for clients |
| SSID Broadcast | Visible | Easy discovery for visitors |
2.3 Coverage Requirements
| Area | Coverage Priority | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All 18 Suites | MUST | Full signal strength in every suite |
| Corridors | MUST | Seamless roaming |
| Reception/Waiting | MUST | Guest network primary zone |
| Break Room | SHOULD | Tenant network access |
| Laundry Room | OPTIONAL | Nice-to-have |
Access Point Placement
For ~3,500 sq ft facility:
| Location | Access Point | Primary Network |
|---|---|---|
| Front Zone (Reception + Suites 1-6) | UniFi U7 Pro #1 | Tenant + Guest |
| Middle Zone (Suites 7-12 + Common) | UniFi U7 Pro #2 | Tenant |
| Back Zone (Suites 13-18) | UniFi U7 Pro #3 | Tenant |
Result: Zero dead zones; seamless roaming throughout facility.
2.4 Internet Service Requirements
| Specification | Minimum | Recommended | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | 100 Mbps symmetrical | 200-500 Mbps | Shared across all tenants |
| Type | Business-class | Fiber preferred | SLA for reliability |
| Static IP | Required | 1 IP minimum | Remote camera viewing |
| Uptime SLA | 99.9% | Higher preferred | Business operations depend on it |
ISP Considerations (Loudoun County)
| Provider | Service Type | Typical Business Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Verizon Fios Business | Fiber | $100-200/month |
| Comcast Business | Cable/Fiber | $100-200/month |
| Local Fiber | Fiber | Varies by building |
Installation Timing: Order ISP service 4-6 weeks before opening. Installation may require landlord coordination.
2.5 Tenant Communication About WiFi
Move-In Orientation
WiFi Information:
- Network Name: "Luxa-Tenant"
- Password: [provided during orientation]
- Support: Contact facility manager for connection issues
- Guest Network: "Luxa-Guest" available for your clients
Usage Guidelines:
- 5 devices per suite typical allocation
- Avoid large downloads/streaming during peak hours (10am-7pm)
- Payment terminals and booking apps work reliably
- Report connectivity issues promptly
WiFi Policy
| Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| Credentials Distribution | During move-in orientation only |
| Password Rotation | Annual or upon tenant turnover |
| Support Contact | Facility manager (owner/manager) |
| Prohibited Use | No excessive bandwidth consumption |
| Liability | Standard disclaimer in lease |
2.6 Budget Summary
| Item | One-Time | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internet Service (Business) | Installation varies | $100-200 | $1,200-2,400 |
| Network Hardware | See Plan 02 | $0 | $0 |
| Access Points | Included in 02 | $0 | $0 |
| TOTAL WiFi | Varies | $100-200 | $1,200-2,400 |
Note: Network hardware (router, switch, APs) budgeted in Plan 02 (Infrastructure Specification).
3. Tenant Booking Ecosystem
3.1 Context: Independent Contractor Model
Critical Compliance Note: Tenants are independent contractors (ICs), not employees. This has important implications for booking software:
| Aspect | What It Means | Compliance Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Software Choice | Tenants choose their own booking system | DO NOT require specific software |
| Payment Processing | Tenants handle their own client payments | DO NOT dictate payment systems |
| Client Relationships | Tenants own their client relationships | DO NOT create dependency on facility systems |
| Scheduling | Tenants set their own hours | DO NOT impose scheduling through software |
Facility's Role: Provide information and support, not mandates.
3.2 Popular Booking Options for Tenants
The following are common choices among independent beauty professionals. This list is informational only - provided during onboarding to help new tenants who don't already have a system.
Square Appointments
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pricing | Free tier available; Plus $29/mo |
| Best For | Tenants already using Square POS |
| Key Features | Online booking, reminders, payment integration |
| Payment Processing | 2.6% + $0.10 per transaction |
Pros:
- Free tier sufficient for most
- Strong payment integration
- Widely recognized by clients
Cons:
- Advanced features require paid tier
- Less specialized for beauty industry
GlossGenius ($24-48/month)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pricing | Standard $24/mo; Gold $48/mo |
| Best For | Independent stylists wanting modern design |
| Key Features | Beautiful mobile-first design, marketing tools, client management |
| Payment Processing | 2.6% flat rate |
Pros:
- Beautiful, Instagram-worthy aesthetic
- Built specifically for beauty professionals
- Strong client engagement features
Cons:
- No free tier
- Mobile-only (no desktop app)
Vagaro ($24-48/month)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pricing | $24/mo single user; scales with features |
| Best For | Tenants wanting marketplace exposure |
| Key Features | Online booking, POS, marketplace listing, loyalty programs |
| Payment Processing | 2.2% + $0.19 per transaction |
Pros:
- Most feature-rich option
- Marketplace listing for client discovery
- Good for tenants building new clientele
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming
- Higher cost for full features
Salon Suite Solutions Tenant App
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pricing | FREE to tenants (if facility uses S3 for PM) |
| Best For | Tenants who want zero cost option |
| Key Features | Booking, invoicing, client management |
| Payment Processing | Varies |
Pros:
- No cost to tenant
- Integrated with facility system
- Potential differentiator for tenant recruitment
Cons:
- Only available if facility uses S3 PM software
- May be less polished than dedicated apps
3.3 Facility's Role in Booking
| Action | Appropriate? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Provide list of options | YES | Informational during onboarding |
| Require specific software | NO | IC violation |
| Charge booking system fees | NO | Not appropriate |
| Highlight S3 tenant app perk | YES | If using S3 for PM - it's a benefit |
| Help tenants troubleshoot | OPTIONAL | Good service, not required |
| Integrate with facility systems | OPTIONAL | If tenant requests |
Sample Onboarding Language
Booking Software:
As an independent contractor, you choose your own booking and payment
systems. Here are popular options used by suite professionals:
- Square Appointments (free tier available)
- GlossGenius ($24-48/mo)
- Vagaro ($24-48/mo)
- [If using S3] Our property management includes a FREE booking app for
tenants - ask about the Salon Suite Solutions tenant app benefit
You are NOT required to use any specific system. This is informational only.
4. Complete Technology Stack Summary
4.1 Phase 11 Technology Overview
All specifications from Phase 11 consolidated:
| Category | Solution | Plan Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Property Management | S3 or Suite Manager | 11-01 |
| Access Control | Nexkey or ButterflyMX | 11-02 / Phase 4 |
| Security Cameras | UniFi Protect | 11-02 / Phase 4 |
| Networking | UniFi | 11-02 |
| VOIP Phone | Nextiva Core | 11-03 (this doc) |
| Internet Service | Business ISP | 11-03 (this doc) |
| Tenant Booking | Tenant's choice | 11-03 (this doc) |
4.2 Recurring Cost Summary
| Category | Monthly (Low) | Monthly (High) | Annual (Low) | Annual (High) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Property Management | $100 | $300 | $1,200 | $3,600 |
| Access Control | $300 | $1,100 | $3,600 | $13,200 |
| Security Cameras | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Networking | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| VOIP Phone | $15 | $20 | $180 | $240 |
| Internet Service | $100 | $200 | $1,200 | $2,400 |
| TOTAL RECURRING | $515 | $1,620 | $6,180 | $19,440 |
4.3 Hardware Cost Summary
| Category | Low Estimate | High Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Access Control | $5,000 | $12,000 | Nexkey (low) to ButterflyMX (high) |
| Cameras + NVR | $2,900 | $4,600 | UniFi Protect 8-camera |
| Networking | $1,700 | $2,700 | UDM Pro + Switch + 3 APs |
| Phone (optional) | $0 | $100 | Mobile-first acceptable |
| TOTAL HARDWARE | $9,600 | $19,400 | One-time |
4.4 Total Technology Investment
| Period | Low Estimate | High Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $15,780 | $38,840 | Hardware + 1 year recurring |
| Year 2+ | $6,180 | $19,440 | Recurring only |
| 3-Year Total | $28,140 | $77,720 | Hardware + 3 years recurring |
Alignment Check: Phase 8 facility cost model includes ~$14,578/month operating expenses. Technology recurring ($515-1,620/month) fits within this budget.
4.5 Key Technology Decisions for SBA Plan
| Decision | Choice | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Subscription vs One-Time | Mix | Cameras/network one-time; access control/PM subscription |
| Enterprise vs SMB | SMB | Right-sized for 18-suite facility |
| Single Vendor | Hybrid | UniFi for cameras/network; specialists for PM/access |
| Remote Management | Required | All systems support owner-operated model |
4.6 Implementation Priority
Install systems in this order (dependencies flow downward):
| Priority | System | Why First |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Internet Service | Everything depends on connectivity |
| 2 | Network Infrastructure | Powers cameras, access control, WiFi |
| 3 | Camera System | Security operational before tenants |
| 4 | Access Control | Ready before first tenant move-in |
| 5 | Property Management Software | Ready for first lease signing |
| 6 | VOIP Phone | Can use personal cell initially if needed |
Implementation Timeline
| Week Before Opening | Action |
|---|---|
| -8 weeks | Order internet service; begin ISP installation |
| -6 weeks | Network equipment arrives; begin wiring |
| -4 weeks | Camera and access control hardware arrives |
| -3 weeks | Install cameras, access control hardware |
| -2 weeks | Configure all systems; test functionality |
| -1 week | Final testing; prepare tenant credentials |
| Opening | Issue first tenant credentials |
5. Document References
Phase 11 Specifications
| Document | Content |
|---|---|
11-01-PLAN outputs | Property management software specification |
11-02-PLAN outputs | Infrastructure specification (cameras, access, network) |
11-03-PLAN outputs | This document (communication services) |
Prior Phase References
| Phase | Document | Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 3 | Service model | Owner-operated concierge model |
| Phase 4 | access-security.md | Access control and camera details |
| Phase 4 | Experience standards | Premium positioning (free WiFi, laundry) |
| Phase 8 | Financial model | Operating expense budget |
Technology stack complete. All specifications ready for vendor quoting and SBA business plan inclusion.
Communication & Tenant Services Specification Complete Phase 11: Technology Stack - Plan 03 Complete
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