Photo: Erik Hannemann | Text: Grethe Rønningen, s360
“Izy is ahead with solutions that you can't get anywhere else. The most important thing is that the app is useful for the end users and us who run the building,” says Elin Johansen Bækken, site manager for Hausmanns Hus.
"Both the landlord and I are committed to making life as easy as possible for everyone who works in the building. And it doesn't get much easier than having everything you need in one app." Bækken works for 4Service, which operates all services in the commercial property Hausmanns Hus, where most tenants use the Izy App daily
While landlord Hathon Holding signed the agreement with Izy, it's the site manager from 4Service who handles day-to-day app management. Bækken credits the landlord for being progressive and open to innovation.
"We're a digital building, and Izy fits perfectly with everything else here. Now you can do everything yourself via your phone," she says.
"Izy's goal is to make life easier. By cutting time spent on routine tasks, I can focus more on operations and providing excellent service to our tenants."
Hausmanns Hus is the first building to adopt Izy's new version with smart digital solutions for both landlords, service providers, tenants and end users/employees.
"We knew the Izy 2.0 version from before, so we can see this is a major upgrade with many new possibilities. I have great confidence in the product and everything that can be automated in back-office operations. I save countless hours by not having to sign invoices manually," says Bækken.
"As with any new tool, you have to expect a startup period where things may need adjustment. And since we're the first to launch the new version, we've been something of a test pilot," Bækken explains.
She has always had a dedicated contact person at Izy to assist along the way.
"During the launch phase, it's been invaluable to have a direct contact for troubleshooting. This has allowed us to work continuously, making improvements and fixing small issues as they arose."
"I'm constantly learning something new, and no one here knows the app as well as I do. Others can look forward to that," she adds with a smile.
With Izy, Hausmanns Hus is the first building to offer digital guest registration.
"It will be exciting to use this completely new solution through Izy," says the site manager.
Guests simply scan a shared QR code on the screen at the building entrance. Once checked in, the host receives a push notification on their phone. This new system eliminates the need for traditional sign-in screens in entrances and lobbies.
Through the Izy App, building users can handle most of what they need for a smooth, efficient workday: ordering meeting catering, booking meeting rooms, submitting maintenance requests, finding contact information, and paying for lunch in the canteen.
Bækken sees potential for even more functionality.
"But right now, we're focused on properly testing what we already have," she says. "Ideally, we'd also have access control integrated into the app."
"We know this has been a common request from users, so we've decided to integrate with the Salto lock system in the 2.0 version of Izy," confirms Ole Aabel, CVO at Izy.
The building's tenants come from various industries, including Oslo Municipality's Welfare Department and several media companies.
"With great digital solutions, the workday becomes easier. You only need your phone—whether it's booking a meeting room, paying in the canteen, or accessing building information. Plus, users get discounts when they use Izy," says Bækken.
Hausmanns Hus previously housed organizations including UDI. During its complete renovation, the building received the latest in electronics and ventilation, with the central section opened up into an atrium.
"This has become a flexible building where all spaces can be easily converted and adapted to current tenants' needs," says Bækken.
"I've never worked in such a modern building. Hausmanns Hus is one of the few with an Open Path system, enabling custom commands and notifications," says Bækken. For example, if movement is detected in rooms after hours, an alert is sent to building security. The same applies if someone bypasses entrance locks after closing time.
"The system makes the building safer without requiring extensive security guard resources. I can even let suppliers into the building in the evening from my own living room—just check the camera and unlock remotely."
Adjacent to Hausmanns Hus is Hattefabrikken (the Hat Factory), named after its historical use. The old premises are being converted into premium office space. The factory has inspired meeting room names like "Flosshatten" and "Sixpencen," while the atrium's social area is called "Holms Have" after the factory's founder.
When Hattefabrikken opens, the two buildings will share a courtyard, canteen, meeting facilities, and more. Hattefabrikken tenants will also use the Izy App.
"The landlord wants Hausmanns Hus to be a meeting place—not just for tenants and employees, but for the whole neighborhood. The café inside the main entrance is open to anyone who wants to stop by," says Bækken.
