The Top Permitting Software Must-Haves: What to Look For

Streamlined Permit Management

You’re in charge of finding a new permitting software for your team and want to make sure you choose a solution that will make everyone’s lives easier, not harder. The options out there can be overwhelming, but focusing on a few key must-haves will help you zero in on the right choice.  As you evaluate different tools, look for ones that simplify processes, centralize information, and provide an intuitive user experience.

permitting software

Robust Reporting and Analytics

With the right permitting software, managing permits and licenses doesn’t have to be complicated. Look for a solution that streamlines the entire permitting process from start to finish.  

Seamless Application Submission

The ability to submit applications and renewals online is a must. A system that pre-fills applicant info and carries over details from past permits saves time and hassle. Electronic signatures simplify approvals.  

Automated Routing and Notifications

Permitting software should automatically route applications and renewals to the proper departments and personnel. It should also send instant notifications and reminders to applicants and staff to keep the process moving.   

Single Source of Truth

A centralized database for all permits, licenses, applications, and supporting documents ensures nothing gets lost in the shuffle. All staff can see the status and details of any permit at a glance.  

Configurable Workflows 

Flexible workflow configuration allows you to easily adjust processes to match your specific needs. Permits that require review or approval from multiple departments or boards are streamlined through customized routing and checklists.

Reporting and Analytics

Robust reporting and analytics give you the insight to track KPIs, spot bottlenecks, and make data-driven improvements to your permitting operations. See summaries and details on application volumes, processing times, approval rates, and more.  

With the automation and efficiency benefits the right software provides, your permitting process will be running smoothly and sustainably for years to come. The rewards of a streamlined system make investing in permitting software worth every penny.

Configurable Workflows and Alerts

Any permitting software worth its salt should provide robust reporting and analytics. How else will you know what’s working and what needs improvement? Look for a solution that offers:

Customizable Dashboards 

You need an easy way to see key metrics at a glance. Dashboards that let you choose the data visualizations and reports you want to see regularly will save you time.

Real-Time Data

Permitting data changes constantly, so make sure you can access up-to-the-minute info. Real-time data lets you spot trends, see how volumes are changing, and make data-driven decisions on the fly.  

Custom Reports

Every organization has unique needs, so you’ll want the flexibility to build custom reports. Look for a system that lets you easily filter, sort, and group data to create reports that provide actionable insights.

Export Capabilities

At some point, you’ll likely want to analyze the data in other tools like Excel or share it with key stakeholders. Choose software that allows you to easily export raw data, reports, and dashboards in multiple formats.   

Drill-Down Functionality

Robust analytics means being able to dive into the details. You should be able to quickly filter down from a high-level view into the granular details of any metric or data point that interests you. Strong drill-down capabilities are a must.

With the right reporting and analytics, you’ll gain valuable insights into your permitting operations and be able to optimize processes for maximum efficiency. Make sure any software you consider provides the tools you need to get the full, data-driven picture of how your permitting program is really working.