As technology advances, the ability to complete tasks that once had to be done in-person can now be accomplished virtually. People can now complete doctor appointments, job interviews, real estate walk throughs and more virtually.  Now, certain types of inspections can be completed remotely as well.  Jurisdictions in several states have already implemented virtual inspections, including Arizona, California, Florida, Kansas, Nevada, New York, and Texas. 

In this post we’ll discuss Remote Virtual Inspections (RVIs), the benefits they provided, and how Oracle provides an integrated RVI solution without the need for a third-party product.

 

What are Remote Virtual Inspections?

According to the International Code Council (ICC), “Remote Virtual Inspections (RVI) are a method of inspection that allows the needed inspections to proceed in a timely manner by the owner or contractor located on the jobsite and the inspector or inspection teams performing the inspection remotely.”  

Before virtual inspections, all inspections had to be completed in person. Inspectors had to go to the inspection site and had to walk through themselves while taking notes and completing the inspections. Now, with the right technology, inspectors are able to complete inspections remotely. The owner or contractor can walk the inspector through the site while the inspector stays remote with the right video communication technology.

Remote Virtual Inspections are becoming more frequent as state and local legislation endorses and encourages the use of virtual inspections. For example, both Los Angeles County and the state of Florida have joined the growing list of government entities that have passed legislation allowing virtual inspections to take place for various instances.  The passing of legislation surrounding virtual inspections continues as the benefits become more apparent. Outlined below are just some of the benefits that Remote Virtual Inspections bring to citizens and governments.

 

Benefits of Remote Virtual Inspections?

  • Faster Approvals: Remote Virtual Inspections allow for inspectors to complete more inspections. This means that the backlog of inspections will decrease as inspectors can complete more inspections allowing for permits to be granted quicker.
  • Improved Satisfaction from Constituent: As stated above, virtual inspections lead to faster approvals. With faster approval times, constituents will not be stuck waiting for approval and will be able to complete their projects quicker.
  • Ease of Workload: Inspectors no longer have to travel with virtual inspections lessening their burden of travel. Having a digitized inspection process also means that inspectors aren’t hindered by manually processing paperwork and can complete the necessary documentation online.        
  • Maintenance of Records: Having inspections virtually further digitizes the inspection process and reduces the reliance on manual records. Virtual inspections even allow agencies the ability to record inspections for their records.
  • Time Saved: Without having to travel to each of their inspections, inspectors save valuable time and can use that time to complete more inspections.
  • Increase Reach: Since inspectors are able to complete inspections without having to go to the inspection site, inspectors can access more remote areas and increase the frequency of inspections in remote areas.
  • Reduce Cost: Without travel cost, inspectors’ costs for the agency are reduced. Plus, inspections can be completed at a faster rate allowing for more inspections to be completed and increase revenue as more permits are approved.

 

How Oracle Supports Remote Virtual Inspections

Within Oracle Permitting and Licensing, Oracle supports the ability to complete virtual inspections by integrating to Oracle Live Experience.  Live Experience provides the capabilities required for virtual inspections, including:

  • Secure, live audio and video communications that can be done on a computer, tablet, or mobile device
  • Recorded videos and pictures, including markup tools
  • Screen-sharing, comments and chat

So how does this differ from other solutions in the marketplace today?  Most other vendors require custom development to integrate their solution to a third-party virtual inspection product.  With Oracle you get a supported integration between our cloud applications, using proven technology that is trusted by industry-leading utilities and service provider companies (i.e., cable companies).

 

Why Now?

Remote Virtual Inspections benefits both government agencies and their citizens. As technology continues to evolve, investing in the right technology can help governments improve their processes to become more efficient and effective. Virtual inspections can do just that simplifying and changing a process that once took significant time and effort.

 

 

Learn More

Modern cloud technology solutions can help public-sector organizations overcome many of the challenges they face. By migrating to the cloud with Oracle Permitting and Licensing, organizations can embrace innovation and push the limits of what their employees and constituents have come to expect from their government.  Oracle is excited to be able to partner with government organizations on their journey to the cloud, and you can discover more Permitting and Licensing product here.