Cloud-based permitting: It’s simpler than you think

We know change can be difficult. But sometimes taking the first step is the hardest part – and that’s the case when switching your local government permitting to a cloud-based solution.

Special event offices are usually aware that paper-based permitting is inefficient and lacks the accountability and transparency of automated solutions, but migration fears need not prevent administrators from making the switch.

When guided by the right experts, switching to a cloud-based solution to help streamline complex permitting can be simpler than you think. In fact, the transition may take as little as two months.

To avoid headaches, choose the right vendor

Prior to the advent of cloud-based solutions, large enterprise software projects were unpredictable and raised serious concerns about cost, compatibility, timelines, training and hardware platforms. Notably, city administrators recall purchases that had long implementation times, cost overruns and disappointing outcomes. With cloud-based solutions many of these fears are now unfounded. But it is still important to choose the right vendor.

Some large eGov vendors are still trying to position themselves as nimble experts with a module for special event permitting. But be wary if implementation timelines exceed more than a few months.

When choosing a vendor ask if the solution was purpose-built for special event offices and what other cities are using the platform. As part of your due diligence, call reference cities to find out how long it actually took. Vendors that claim they can get the entire job done in 4-6 months, may not be including several follow-on months for configuration, reporting and training.

It’s important to know the full time commitment. Cloud solutions shouldn’t take more than a few months.

Eproval’s SaaS platform is easy to setup

Eproval is a cloud-based permitting platform for local government that prides itself on rapid implementation and ease of use. Offering a software-as-a-service model means there are no difficult installations, and your account can easily be setup and configured in a matter of months.

Eproval’s customer success team will help guide you through every step uncovering efficiencies and streamlining your existing process. Once setup is complete, they can assist your team with onboarding and training, although very little training is usually required as the process is so intuitive.

• Easy to purchase. Eproval works hard to make it as easy as possible to implement, and that starts with the procurement process. With our recent cooperative contracting agreement with NASPO ValuePoint, purchasing Eproval has never been easier. Eproval can be purchased in all 50 states and territories without the need for a request for proposal (RFP).
• Guided by experts for rapid implementation. Eproval’s experts will work with your current workflow design – regardless of whether it is paper-based, in a PDF or simply done by email – to streamline it in their permitting platform. Think of them as an extension of your IT department – they will help with everything from identifying your unique needs, configuring and streamlining your process, training, and report building.
• Easy to learn, easy to use. In addition to Eproval’s core products, modules are available to support online payments, calendars, and other features so that it is easy to scale and add functionality as requirements change. Whether you have 10, 20 or 30 concurrent reviewers from different departments or agencies, Eproval is easy to learn and easy to use. Plus, the secure platform is mobile-friendly allowing for easy access anytime, anywhere.
• ?Limited training required. Eproval is easy to implement with an intuitive user interface. It takes teams almost no time to get up to speed. As part of the onboarding process, Eproval offers “train the user” sessions to acquaint users with the backend and illustrate how to make instant changes to application steps and workflow. This eliminates the need for change orders and coding consultants.

Get started today.