Improving Efficiency Through Technology
Building Department
When the Building Department ’ s PANDA software was launched 10 years ago , it was designed to reduce the number of permits that had to be filled out on paper . A decade later , paper permits are almost a thing of the past , allowing for more complete submittals , quicker review timelines and overall faster processing .
Since it first used PANDA in 2013 , the Building Department has continued to work with internal and external stakeholders to implement technologic solutions that improve efficiency .
In 2023 , the Building Department began to expand the use of virtual inspections . Now , when contractors complete a project , they can pre-schedule an inspection or opt for an inspection on-demand using a free cell phone app . The Building Department also is utilizing virtual roofing inspections , which reduces travel time by inspectors and has increased the number of inspections they can complete .
Because time is money in construction , the Building Department established a one-of-a-kind “ permit journey tracking ” tool to analyze each phase of every permit . This allows the department to see where a project is in its timeline and identify deficiencies along the way .
While these technological solutions have assisted the Building Department get more work done , stakeholders appreciate it . From making inspection scheduling easier to ensuring project timelines are met , the Building Department ’ s efforts have been well received across the community .
90.15 %
Percentage of building permits that are paperless . That compares to 100 % of permits on paper when PANDA was launched in 2013 .
431,534
Number of building permits stored in PANDA .
99 %
Percentage of all researched permits that met or exceeded “ stakeholder-initiated ” timelines .
22 | 2023 City Manager ’ s Annual Report