Top 3 Reasons to Move Your Plan Review Process Online

In local government operations, the plan review process plays a crucial role in urban planning, construction, and community development. Traditionally, this process has been paper-intensive and time-consuming, leading to delays and inefficiencies. However, the advent of online plan review systems offers a transformative solution. Here are the top three benefits of adopting online plan review for local governments:

1. Increased Efficiency and Speed

Online plan review significantly streamlines the entire review process. With digital submission, review, and approval, the cumbersome handling of physical documents becomes a thing of the past. This transition results in faster turnaround times and more efficient workflows.

Key Advantages:

  • Immediate Access: Plans can be submitted and accessed instantly, eliminating the need to physically transport documents.
  • Automated Workflows: Automated notifications and task assignments ensure that reviews move forward without unnecessary delays.
  • Parallel Processing: Multiple reviewers can work on the same plan simultaneously, speeding up the review cycle.

2. Enhanced Transparency

A digital platform for plan reviews promotes greater transparency and accountability within the local government and for the public. Every step in the review process is tracked and recorded, providing a clear audit trail and keeping all stakeholders informed of the review's status.

Key Advantages:

  • Tracking and Auditing: All actions taken on a plan are logged, allowing for easy tracking of who did what and when.
  • Clear Communication: Online platforms often include communication tools that facilitate more transparent and more direct interactions between reviewers and applicants.

3. Improved Collaboration and Communication

Online plan review systems foster better collaboration among various departments and stakeholders involved in the review process. This leads to more coordinated efforts and higher-quality outcomes.

Key Advantages:

  • Centralized Platform: A single, centralized platform where all parties can view and comment on plans ensures everyone is on the same page.
  • Real-Time Updates: Stakeholders receive real-time updates on the status of reviews and any changes made, reducing miscommunication.
  • Integrated Tools: Features like shared commenting, markup tools, and version control enhance collaborative efforts and ensure all feedback is documented and considered.

How SDL Connect Can Help

Adopting an online plan review system offers numerous benefits for local governments, from increased efficiency and speed to enhanced transparency and improved collaboration. Municipalities can streamline operations, better serve their communities, and foster a more transparent and accountable review process by moving away from paper-based processes. Embracing this digital transformation is a crucial step towards modernizing local government functions and meeting the evolving needs of the public.

Spatial Data Logic is a leading expert in plan review software. Click the link below to speak with an expert about bringing your processes online.

SDL Connect | Spatial Data Logic

SDL Connect is a product of Spatial Data Logic.

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