What is Permitting Software?

Permitting software is a system that streamlines the process of submitting, reviewing, and issuing permits. It is most often used by local governments, builders, and permit applicants.

Governments use permitting software to track workflows, issue permits, and talk with stakeholders. It significantly reduces paperwork and administrative work for government staff. Permitting software often includes application forms, document management, fee tracking, and workflow automation.

Moving away from paper-based permitting helps minimize errors and miscommunications since everything is stored in the software.

Permitting software can help governments achieve new efficiency heights with streamlined processes. It's a game-changer for both government agencies and applicants that helps ensure smoother interactions and faster approvals.

However, there are two distinct types of permitting software – on-premises and online.

They both can allow for more simplified permitting than paper-based systems, but one has major advantages over the other.

Online permitting software fosters online work, so government staff and other stakeholders can work from any mobile device. This is beneficial for both ends of the permitting process.

These are just a few of the ways that online software poses a great advantage over on-premises software:

• Staff can save valuable time by performing inspections in the field without needing to travel back to the office to reinput the same information.
• Applicants do not need to travel to the government office to submit an application or pay fees.
• Emails, phone calls, and front counter visits are significantly reduced by moving all conversations online with time-stamped messages.
• Data is more secure in the event of a natural disaster like a fire or flood.
• Fees can be paid online instead of at the front counter.
• Notifications can be sent automatically instead of manually (for example, applicants can be immediately notified when their inspection status changes instead of needing to be emailed by government staff).
• Applicants, builders, and staff can use any mobile device to work on permit projects instead of needing to be on a specific computer or at the office.