Five defining features of the best building permit software

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Five defining features of the best building permit software

Five defining features of the best building permit software

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Dec 30,23

Permit management software is a growing field. Construction professionals must learn what separates the best of this software from the rest to make the most informed decisions amid that development, says Emily Newton.

Five defining features of the best building permit software

Navigating local regulations is crucial but challenging. Permit management software makes it easier, but as this product category has grown, it can be harder to choose from the many options.

All building permit software provides tools for reviewing, applying for, and tracking construction codes and related workforce regulations. Beyond that, it varies widely in terms of features and functionality. While specific needs vary between projects and firms, there are a few features you should look for in the best permit software.

1. Real-time visibility

Permit management software should feature real-time functionality. After submitting an application, it can take weeks or even months to obtain authorisation. If you do not start as soon as you receive your permit, that delay could lead to lengthy schedule overruns, so you will want to know as quickly as possible.

Real-time alerts when your application moves to the next phase enable that agility. You will also want immediate feedback if state regulators deny your request or request additional documentation.

Real-time data visualization is also helpful. Some apps provide up-to-date glimpses at your current regulatory standings, whether you are pursuing a permit in the future or trying to stay within the confines of a current one. This information is crucial in balancing compliance with efficiency.

2. Automation and user support

Automated features are also desirable. Some leading permit apps can automatically tell you if your application will pass or fail. These AI-powered features may not be 100% accurate, but they are reliable enough to gauge whether you should change anything before submitting your permit request.

Other automated features to consider include form-filling once you provide the right documentation, scheduling and messaging. Automating these repetitive tasks saves considerable time over several projects. Manual data entry also has an average 1 per cent error rate, which seems small but is enough to create substantial problems in a multi-page form.

Similarly, the best permit tools offer extensive user training and support. If a service is more convenient and easy to use, you will use it faster and make fewer mistakes.

3. Support for multiple jurisdictions

Permit management software should also support multiple regulatory jurisdictions. Building and workforce codes vary widely by different areas, and you will likely build in more than one. If your app only works with one zone’s government, its usefulness will be limited.

Along the same lines, these solutions should support multiple kinds of permits. In addition to building authorizations, you will need specific licenses for welding, working from heights, electrical work, plumbing and possibly more, depending on the jurisdiction. The more forms and authorities your app works with, the better.

Bear in mind that apps can define support differently. One may technically work with a specific area or permit but require more manual adjustment. Software with extensive ready-to-fill forms and direct connections to regulators are preferable.

4. Compliance tracking

Compliance tracking tools are another key feature to look for. If a project does not comply with construction regulations, the initial permit will not save it from legal issues. Monitoring your compliance across workflows is indispensable in avoiding those outcomes.

Different permit solutions will offer varying approaches to compliance monitoring. Look for those that provide easy-to-interpret visualizations of your project’s regulatory standings and automated alerts. Software that can also track and alert you to third-party compliance issues is ideal.

These features are also helpful when aiming to achieve post-construction certifications. If you want to pursue LEED accreditation because certified buildings sell for more, you must ensure many workflows throughout the project align with LEED guidelines. Compliance monitoring makes it easier to see what you must do to stay in those lines, preventing costly mistakes.

5. Data privacy and security

Like all digital solutions today, permit management software must also be secure. Regulatory documents may store lots of sensitive information — like parties’ contact data or payment information — so any breach could be damaging.

Attacks on the critical infrastructure sector have increased by 3,900 per cent in just seven years, indicating cybersecurity is not something to take lightly. All permit software should have built-in protections like data encryption, multi-factor authentication, and secure payment and e-signature methods.

Compatibility with third-party security software is also crucial. All contractors and construction firms should use advanced anti-malware and threat-monitoring solutions. If a permit app does not work with these existing security programs, it may be too risky to justify.

Find the best permit management software for your needs

Permit management software is a growing field. As it matures, new solutions will emerge and existing ones will adopt new features. Construction professionals must learn what separates the best of this software from the rest to make the most informed decisions amid that development.

Many solutions offer these five features, so the best program depends on your needs. However, it must have these functions at a minimum. Any permit app without them will not be as secure, effective and productive as construction firms need it to be.

About the author:

Emily Newton is a tech and industrial journalist and the Editor-in-Chief of Revolutionized Magazine. Subscribe to the Revolutionized newsletter for more content from Emily.