Inspections 2.0: Using Mobile Technology to Revolutionize Permit Inspections

About the Program

Category: Planning (Best in Category)

Year: 2015

As the construction industry is a key part of Pierce County’s economy, county government is dedicated to efficiently conducting building inspections. Pierce County’s Field Module App and Skype Inspection Program are outstanding examples of using technology to improve customer service and streamline business processes. The Field Module app allows inspectors to access inspection requests, building plans and permit data on their iPads. Built-in GIS mapping and calendar tools make it easy for an inspector to sort requests by priority and to plan out optimal inspection routes. Staff can easily enter inspection results, take photos, and immediately upload data to the County’s central database. Customers can receive either electronic or printed copies of their inspection and request a re-inspection for the next day. The app allows inspectors to conduct up to 70 more inspections a week – or 3,500 more per year! Additionally, Pierce County is one of the first counties in the nation to use free video chat tools such as Skype or Facetime for minor inspections. The Skype program has been a tremendous success in terms of saving staff time, money and gas. Inspectors are able to do inspections from their desk, rather than having to physically visit a remote site to complete a minor inspection. Both of these innovations have improved service delivery while increasing transparency of the permit process. Pierce County is leading innovation nationally and has received requests from multiple agencies about how to start their own mobile permitting programs.