New software tool will streamline building permit application process, city officials say

The city of Fort Atkinson has announced that it has implemented a new software tool to help streamline its building and zoning permit process.

The new software, called iworQ, is created by a Utah-based “software as a service” or “SaaS” company, which, according to its website, provides software to help with the day-to-day operations of some 2,000 city and county governments across the U.S. and Canada. The company has been providing its services since 2001.  

According to news released by the city, the software will make it easier for contractors and residents to apply for permits online and increase contractor and citizen engagement. 

The online portal provides contractors and cities with tools to submit forms, manage applications, review a permit status, request inspections, upload documents and images, and make payments online, the release stated. 

Offering an explanation of zoning codes, according to the release, “in order to manage development and redevelopment in the community, government agencies administer zoning and building codes and regulations for land use. Most agencies are managing this process with paper documents and moving them from department to department. 

“This is ineffective, disorganized and takes more time than necessary,” the release continued, adding that the new software will help everyone engaged in the process save time. 

“With the help of iWorQ’s Online Portal we’ve been able to streamline the zoning permit application process while ensuring compliance with regulations. It helps the permit application process be more efficient and faster. The new service will make the process easier for citizens and contractors and also offer the ability to pay online, which we haven’t offered in the past,” Jedidiah Draeger, building inspector and zoning administrator for the city of Fort Atkinson, was quoted as saying in the release. 

The new iWorQ program will track a permit application through inspection all the way to occupancy, and allow staff efficiencies in the permitting process,” the release stated.  

To access the new permit portal from the city’s website, visit: www.fortatkinsonwi.gov/iWorQOnlinePortal. 

For more information about the city’s new online process, contact Jedidiah Draeger, by email: jdraeger@fortatkinsonwi.gov or phone: 920-397-9901. 

To learn more about the software company, visit its website: https://iworq.com/portal/. 

The city of Fort Atkinson’s new iWorQ zoning permit application porthole as it appears when opened on a mobile phone. Kim McDarison photo. 

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