DBI reports progress on permit-tracking system, server refresh and mobile inspection pilots

Kimani Canty, IS Project Director for DBI, updated the Building Inspection Commission on Jan. 16 about the department's permit-tracking and technology projects.

Canty said configuration and interface analysis for the new permit-and-project tracking system is in progress, that subject-matter experts are developing user-acceptance test scripts, and that a citizen-access portal demonstration is scheduled for Jan. 30. He said the Mission-Corridor infrastructure refresh (shared server-room and migration work with Planning and the Human Services Agency) is under construction and that DBI aims to complete its data migration by May.

On mobile inspections, Canty said DBI trialed heavier-purpose handheld devices but received user feedback favoring smartphones; the new permit-tracking product includes a mobile interface and staff are preparing a rollout plan that will include device procurement and service-provider procurement considerations. Canty also reported progress on cashiering-system interfaces and a phased schedule for implementation, with tentative tax-collector work in February and a short follow-on for DBI.

Commissioners asked that the grand jury, which has reported previously on DBI technology, be invited to the citizen advisory group and pressed for attention to mobile-service contracts and recurring operating costs associated with field devices. Staff said procurement terms and service-provider deals are under review to avoid duplicative ongoing costs.