Understanding the Benefits of Permitting Software
Ever tried to get a permit from your local government agency? Chances are it was a painful, time-consuming process that left you frustrated. But it doesn’t have to be that way. More and more cities and counties are upgrading their permitting software to efficient, user-friendly software and the results are game-changing.
You’re probably wondering how implementing new software can improve such an aggravating experience. The key is selecting a system designed specifically for permitting and licensing, not some generic off-the-shelf solution. Modern permitting software centralizes all the required data and automates workflow, so you’ll spend less time tracking down information from various departments. Applications and payments can be submitted online 24/7, and status updates are delivered instantly to your inbox.
With permitting software, government staff have a 360-degree view of each application so they can spot any missing items quickly. And because the software integrates with GIS mapping, staff can instantly see the location and details of your project. Simply put, permitting software is a win-win, cutting the time you spend applying in half and making the review and approval process twice as fast for agencies. The result? A permitting experience that’s faster, easier, and dare we say almost pleasant.
Creating a Plan for Implementing Permitting Software
Understanding the Benefits of Permitting Software
Permitting software offers many advantages over traditional paper permitting. For starters, it streamlines the entire permitting process, saving you valuable time and resources.
With permitting software, applicants can submit permit requests online 24/7. The software automatically checks for completeness and accuracy before the request even reaches your desk. This eliminates incomplete applications and allows you to focus on approving valid requests.
Permitting software also gives you a single source for all permit data. You’ll have instant access to the status of any permit, comments, reviews, and inspection reports. This “single source of truth” ensures everyone involved has the latest updates which avoids confusion and duplicated effort.
The reporting and analytics capabilities of permitting software are huge benefits. With just a few clicks, you can generate reports on permit types, turnaround times, workload, and revenue. These insights allow you to spot trends, uncover bottlenecks, and make data-driven decisions to improve the permitting process.
Finally, permitting software enhances transparency and communication. Applicants can check on the status of their permits anytime. Notifications and reminders are automated. And all parties have access to the same information, comments, documents, and more. This level of transparency builds trust in the permitting process.
With so many advantages, it’s easy to see why more jurisdictions are turning to permitting software. When implemented properly, it leads to a faster, more efficient, and transparent permitting process for all.
Training Employees to Use the New Permitting Software
To successfully implement permitting software, you need a solid plan of attack.
First, determine your needs and priorities. Do you need a solution for building permits, code enforcement, licensing, or all of the above? Identify your must-haves and nice-to-haves to find a system that meets your key requirements.
Next, form a team to evaluate options. Include people from IT, finance, and all departments that will use the system. Get input on needs and review demos of potential solutions together. Discuss pros and cons to make sure you consider all needs and perspectives.
Once you choose a vendor, work with them on an implementation plan. Map out key steps, timelines, and responsibilities. Some key things to address:
• Data conversion – How will you transfer legacy data into the new system? Address data cleanup and organization.
• Training – Develop a schedule to train all users on the new software before launch. Both initial and ongoing training help users adapt to changes.
• Testing – Take time to test all critical functions to ensure the software works as expected before rolling it out agency-wide. Fix any issues to avoid disruptions after launch.
• Policy changes – Update any internal policies or processes affected by the new permitting software. Revise documentation and forms as needed.
• Marketing – Spread the word about the new system to external users like contractors, homeowners, and business owners. Provide resources to help them learn the new processes.
With proper planning and collaboration, implementing permitting software can go smoothly and provide huge benefits for your agency and community. Follow these tips, get buy-in from all stakeholders, and your transition to an efficient digital permitting solution will be a success!
