Three Ways Digital Technology Can Help Authorities Having Jurisdiction Improve Performance

There was a time when authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) needed compelling reasons to adopt new technologies.

The world has changed a great deal in a short amount of time, and today, many jurisdictions are embracing the latest digital technologies. There are, however, some jurisdictions that are still hesitant to get on board. Adopting new technologies can sometimes present new challenges, but the benefits will  free up AHJs to do better work, attract top talent,and retain institutional knowledge.

Here are three reasons to consider adopting the latest digital technology for your department.

1. Increase Your Productivity Via Digitial Technology

Many AHJs currently find themselves understaffed and overworked, exacerbated by an increased workload and outdated workflow. Manual processes add friction and take up more time, which can make it impossible to do work effectively and efficiently.

For example, solar power is a booming industry, but installation projects are often hampered by slow permitting approvals. AHJs are overwhelmed with permit applications, especially as the number of solar installations has increased. And because paper-based application processes are inherently slow, AHJs often find themselves overwhelmed with paperwork.

On-site code inspections are notoriously inefficient as well. Everyday building inspectors deal with the hassles of tracking down code books for their jobs or forgetting to bring all the codes they need to the job site. Interruptions like these can add hours to a simple job.

Digital solutions can automate slow paper-based processes, streamline workflows and prevent interruptions.  

2. Leverage Digital Technology to Attract Top Talent

There’s a perception among the next generation of professionals that building departments — including AHJs — lack cutting-edge technology.  The next generation of professionals expects modern processes and technologies in the workplace and are quickly frustrated by old-school tools and procedures that hinder creativity, collaboration and speed.

AHJs that adopt the latest technology, are creating workplaces where new leaders can fit in, contribute and grow. 

3. Retain Institutional Knowledge With Digital Tools

The Great Retirement is coming. By 2030, 75 million Baby Boomers will have retired — and because AHJs skew older, a wealth of institutional knowledge will leave with them.

Traditionally, generational wisdom was passed on by giving new hires exposure to senior employees, but that’s happening less and less as older workers are retiring faster than they can be replaced.

Digital technologies can make it easier to retain this wealth of institutional knowledge. Experienced personnel can easily contribute to knowledge bases, create quick videos or simply leave notes that are collected and curated in online resource hubs.

Training tools are easier to create than ever before, enabling organizations to onboard new employees more quickly and effectively.

Digital tools have boosted the power of collaboration as well, so that younger employees can learn as they work alongside senior personnel.

ICC Digital Codes Premium Can Help

While there are plenty of challenges that come with adopting new technologies, digital transformation isn’t an optional path — it’s a necessary path, especially if an AHJ wants to improve its workflow, recruiting and knowledge base.

ICC Digital Codes Premium can be a critical tool for AHJs embracing digitization. The platform allows users to search over 1,400 of the latest codes and standards, share access and content simultaneously, and classify notes, files or videos into relevant code sections. Other features include the ability to download up to 15 code titles for offline use, highlight code book content and add annotations, view full change history and public comments, and more.

ICC Digital Codes Premium is designed for organizations that are ready to get more work done, attract young talent and improve their institutional knowledge. To learn more, click, here.