If there’s anything we learned from COVID-19, online services and digital access to information are a necessity. By modernizing their permitting processes, local municipalities not only are able to provide contactless service but also save money and time by streamlining workflow.
A full digital solution includes everything from application to occupancy, which reduces administrative time and onsite inspection time drastically. These time savings have increased productivity and ROI for Planning and Development Departments.
5 reasons your municipality or local authority can save time and money by providing a fully digital permitting process.
1. Online Portals Provide Application Accessibility
Applying for a permit is now easily done online by contractors, citizens, or anyone who is planning new construction, renovations, or additions. Previously, applicants would either have to drive to the office to submit the application or scan and fax/email it over to the office. This would deter some citizens from applying for basic permits and create more grief when the information was incomplete.
CityReporter’s online Permit Portal gives the applicant the ability to apply for and manage their permits online from any location. They are able to fill in all pertinent information, supply plans and supporting documentation, pay any required fees, and stay up-to-date on the progress of the permit, all without stepping into an office.
Some municipalities don’t believe they need software because they don’t receive enough permits, but this is usually a side effect of the permitting process being difficult and lengthy leaving projects to be completed without permits. Many municipalities have seen more permits being submitted due to the increased accessibility and ease of use with CityReporter’s Permit Portal.
2. Efficient Communication Creates Faster Plan Reviews
Information that is transferred digitally allows for a quicker response and in turn a quicker review process.
If there is any update on the status of the permit, CityReporter Software’s permitting solution can provide applicants with immediate email notification with any required next actions. This ensures efficient communication between the applicant and the city’s department for an effective permitting process with fewer delays and superior customer service.
3. Building Officials Save Time During Construction
Many municipalities and local authorities are finding it very difficult to hire certified Building Officials. The number of vacancies continues to be high in many areas of North America.
So how can they keep up with the increasing demands for development and ensure codes are upheld?
Digital inspection processes allow for quick onsite inspections and follow-ups. CityReporter Software users have seen a 50% reduction in inspection time. By saving this time, Building Officials are able to complete more inspections to keep up with demands.
The inspection process takes into account requirements for buildings, footings & foundations, framing, plumbing, water, sewer, and any other areas that require inspections during the building process. CityReporter Software comes with built-in forms and can have custom forms created for the entire building process. A Building Official can complete an inspection without any writing or typing. This ensures that all codes, standards, and regulations are clear and easily upheld during construction.
Looking for an efficient & paperless permit management solution with an integrated online portal?
4. Streamlined Workflow with GIS and Entire Permit History
When information is stored in various formats and/or locations it is very easy to misplace the information or forget to transfer the information to the appropriate person. This creates delays in the process that can result in significant issues for the applicant and/or municipality.
With a digital solution, the entire permit history is documented and stored including any inspections performed, changes required, stop work orders communicated, and next scheduled inspections. This streamlines the workflow to ensure accuracy and communication.
CityReporter Software’s Mapping solution allows inspections to be visible on a map so that Building Officials can plan their days effectively. They are able to see the past inspection history, overdue inspections, and more on the map.
As previously discussed, with a digital system paperwork is eliminated and inspection time is reduced providing efficiency in the office and on-site. The time savings for the administrative tasks and inspections can be reallocated to processing more permits through to occupancy bringing more revenue into the department.
CityReporter Software’s clients saw their department’s ROI increase from $30,000 to over $100,000 in the first year and over $200,000 in the second year of using the software.
The benefits of digital software are clear, don’t miss out any longer.
