The application provides a centralized database for tracking and managing permitting and licensing activities, eliminating the disparate databases formerly maintained by the city and allowing employees to be interconnected and operate more efficiently. Staff is using the new application to automate permitting, inspections, workflow, contractor licenses, construction plan reviews, and other critical functions. The system is deployed for over 60 unique application types of permits including building, plumbing, HVAC, refrigeration, mechanical, and other construction related permits. The city currently issues 40,000-45,000 permits annually.
"The city is excited to have Accela Automation completed and implemented for our primary office processes," said Susan Kelley, superintendent of the Omaha Planning Department's Permits and Inspections Division. "This Web-based system is fully integrated, so it offers flexible solutions that are streamlining the daily functions and duties of our staff. Once the inspector and citizen access phases are complete, we anticipate improved delivery of our permit and inspection services to the citizens of Omaha."
The next phase of the project will involve implementing and deploying Accela Wireless for mobile inspection management, followed by the implementation of GIS functionality. The citizen access phase is scheduled for deployment in the fall of 2006.
