Introduction: Adapting to a New Reality
With COVID-19, 2020 has brought unprecedented changes for everyone. Gone are the days of daily office commutes, regular dining out, and face-to-face gatherings with loved ones. Instead, we’ve adapted to working remotely, celebrating holidays via Skype, and relying on takeout food. This unique year has revealed the resilience and adaptability of humans. The following article will discuss how Construction Edge has faced the challenges of this pandemic.
A Shift in Permit Expediting Landscape
For Construction Edge, a complete shift in the landscape of permit expediting has taken place. Our Project Managers are experts at minimizing wait times, thanks to our personal connections with various jurisdictions. The pandemic has required us to use our problem-solving abilities to face permit expediting challenges never seen before.
Simplifying Initial Submissions
While some aspects remain similar to the pre-COVID era, such as the initial submission of medium to large projects, other aspects have become simpler. We now just drop off the plans, pay fees online, and wait for notification when corrections are ready. Before the pandemic, long lines at the cashier desk could heavily delay this process. This new approach has allowed us to adapt quickly to the changing circumstances.
Challenges and Additional Requirements
Regrettably, this is the only stage that has become more streamlined during the pandemic. Additional requirements at every other step have added complexities, resulting in more time to achieve the desired outcomes. From planning to approval, every stage has witnessed changes that have required innovative approaches.
Leveraging Relationships and Expertise
Fortunately, our Project Managers at Construction Edge are seasoned in permit expediting and have found solutions to each new obstacle that COVID has introduced. Our personal relationships with city officials and detailed knowledge of the legal requirements have proved invaluable during these challenging times.
Jurisdictional Challenges
Each city jurisdiction has its unique guidelines to obtain a permit. The City of Los Angeles, for example, has introduced new measures such as quarantining dropped-off plans and telecommuting for some functions. These changes require intense planning and coordination to avoid delays.
Scheduling and Coordination
The lack of uniformity across and within departments and hidden schedules have added to the challenges. We are now engaged in detailed scheduling, considering wait times, city agent appointments, and the in-office schedule of jurisdiction staff. The pandemic has forced us to become more strategic and organized in our approach.
Case Studies and Examples
To emphasize how simple tasks have become delayed, one of our Project Managers has provided examples. Here’s a closer look at some of these challenges:
Small Scope of Works
What was once a simple same-day review has now turned into a weeks-long queue. This shift has dramatically impacted efficiency and increased the complexity of even small projects.
Jurisdictional Administrative Requirements
Processes that once took hours now stretch over four to six weeks. Each department’s separate review and lack of coordination have created a convoluted and time-consuming system.
Overcoming Challenges with Innovation
Construction Edge has managed to overcome these issues thanks to our close relationships with jurisdictions and a deep understanding of the system. We have leveraged these connections to ask reviewers to facilitate specific tasks, saving time, and ensuring efficiency.
Leveraging Relationships
Our network of contacts within city departments nationwide has helped us navigate the new procedures and requirements. Building and maintaining these relationships have proven crucial to our success during this period.
Strategic Problem-Solving
Understanding the intricate details of permit expediting has allowed us to strategize solutions for every problem. From utilizing new technologies to collaborating with various stakeholders, we’ve found ways to innovate and adapt.
Conclusion: Thriving in the New Normal
A novice in permit expediting will likely encounter difficulties obtaining a permit in these times. By employing a professional with nationwide experience, such as Construction Edge, you can save both time and money on your next project. We have distinguished ourselves during the pandemic through proactive communication, consistent quality service, and a proven track record of success. Our story is a testament to the resilience, innovation, and adaptability that has defined 2020, a year of change, challenges, and ultimately, growth.
The journey of Construction Edge during these times serves as an inspiration and a guide for businesses looking to adapt and thrive in the new normal. By leveraging relationships, embracing innovation, and demonstrating resilience, we have navigated the complexities of this pandemic. As we look to the future, we remain committed to providing top-quality service and leading the way in permit expediting, no matter what challenges lie ahead.