Online permit tracking helps municipalities work smarter, not harder. With technology, local governments can streamline the management and monitoring of permit applications through a transparent system. Read on to discover how permitting solutions support local government operations, beginning with a benefit especially important for the public sector:
1. Real-Time Visibility
Online permit tracking systems provide real-time visibility into the status of permit applications. This transparency benefits municipal staff and applicants, allowing them to track the progress of applications, understand current stages, and receive updates on necessary actions.
Take, for example, the City of Lambertville—when they moved their processes online, they saw clearer communication and improved transparency with residents. Lambertville needed a solution that could bring their processes online quickly. By partnering with SDL, they were able to replace physical applications with digital forms. They observed increased participation in parking permit applications, bulk pickup requests, and other online services, while also providing better visibility into progress tracking for their residents.
2. Improved Communication
Online permit tracking significantly strengthens communication between local governments and applicants. The systems often include features such as automated notifications and alerts, reducing the need for manual follow-ups. This leads to more transparent and efficient communication, minimizing delays and misunderstandings.
3. Reduced Administrative Burden
Automation in permit tracking reduces the administrative burden on municipal staff. Instead of relying on manual tracking and coordination, staff can use a digital system to manage workflows, track application status, and generate reports, freeing time for more strategic tasks.
Schenectady County was able to save 60% of time viewing applications by switching to SDL. Schenectady’s CIO knew that switching to digital processes could save time, so she partnered with SDL to bring processes online. Now, Schenectady staff uses SDL Connect to digitize workflows, reducing administrative tasks and saving over half their time spent on reviewing applications.
4. Faster Decision-Making
With an online permit tracking system, decision-making processes are expedited. Staff can quickly review applications, identify issues, and promptly communicate with applicants. This acceleration of the permitting process benefits both government agencies and applicants, fostering a more responsive and efficient system.
5. Data Analysis and Reporting
Online permit tracking systems often include analytical tools that allow local governments to analyze data trends, identify bottlenecks, and generate reports. This data-driven approach enables staff to make informed decisions, optimize workflows, and allocate resources effectively.
6. Access Anytime, Anywhere
The online nature of the permit tracking system enables access from anywhere with an internet connection. Local government staff, inspectors, and applicants can securely access the system remotely, promoting flexibility in managing and monitoring the permit process.
7. Efficient Record Keeping
Online permit tracking systems serve as centralized repositories for all permit-related information. This centralized approach makes historical data easily accessible, simplifying record-keeping and facilitating audits or reviews.
Online permit tracking significantly benefits local governments by improving transparency, communication, and efficiency in the permitting process. Implementing a system for online permitting streamlines workflows, enhances decision-making, and ultimately improves resident service and satisfaction. Interested in learning more about online permit tracking? Learn how SDL can help.