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    Transparency or Redundancy?

    From the outside looking in, the DOB’s idea of transparency seems like a very positive and forward thinking initiative. Conceptually, digitizing plans and making them accessible via the web should mean greater access to information, a stronger dialogue between builders and the community, and numerous other positives.

    That being said, the inside-looking-out view is a bit different. Previously, plans were drawn up, submitted on paper and presented for approval.

    Today, submitting applications requires more steps. First, paper copies must be submitted with official signatures. This information is then manually typed into the DOB database. Finally, documents are scanned into the DOB virtual folder, after which the paper disappears.

    Starting on July 13, drawings will also need to go through a similar, redundant process. Projects will need to be submitted on paper. Drawings will then be scanned into the DOB database. The new ZD-1 format must be created, duplicating the already approved zoning drawings, and submitted, scanned and annotated as well.

    What started out as paper is now a combination of printing, scanning and third-party typing. Add the elements of new software, new training, new Building Code and much more information, and we probably will see more errors and delays.

    Posted By Phil Jackier

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