Accela

Accela is leading the charge in cloud-based software solutions designed to modernize local and state governments. With a mission to make government processes more efficient, it provides solutions that simplify permitting, licensing, and code enforcement.

With end-to-end support, Accela ensures a smooth transition to digital tools, from installation to training and ongoing optimization. At the core of its offerings, the cloud-based Civic Platform automates tasks, enhances citizen engagement, and improves government efficiency by connecting departments and breaking down bureaucratic silos.

Accela enhances citizen engagement with self-service portals, allowing residents to apply for permits, track applications, and receive real-time updates for greater transparency and accessibility. Its mobile-first design enables government employees to work remotely, reducing paperwork and boosting productivity. The highly configurable platform streamlines processes with automated approvals, notifications, and workflow management, while built-in compliance tools ensure regulatory adherence. Robust analytics and Microsoft Azure cloud hosting provide top-tier security, reliability, and scalability.

For agencies seeking rapid digital transformation, Accela offers ready-to-use civic applications. The permitting solution expedites approvals with online submissions and real-time tracking. The licensing application simplifies business and occupational license management for quick renewals and compliance tracking. The code enforcement solution enhances inspections, violation tracking, and compliance monitoring, reducing administrative bottlenecks.

From Bottlenecks to Seamless Service

Government agencies often struggle with inefficient service models—slow approvals, redundant paperwork, and fragmented communication— causing delays that hinder businesses, community growth, and resident satisfaction. Accela’s modern digital infrastructure streamlines operations, automates administrative tasks, and enhances interdepartmental collaboration.

For instance, the City of Tacoma, Washington, sought a more agile and responsive approach to government service delivery. By adopting Accela’s cloud-based solutions, the city successfully consolidated multiple third-party applications, eliminating inefficiencies and reducing service backlogs. Tacoma’s municipal teams process permit applications, inspections and approvals at an accelerated pace, ensuring businesses and residents receive timely responses.

According to Jennifer Ward, an innovation leader within the city, the ability to swiftly adapt to new regulatory requirements and economic shifts has been a game-changer. She notes, “Regulations are changing quickly, and citizens and entrepreneurs are coming up with new ideas that reshape our landscape. It’s exciting to have a tool that can respond to that.”

Beyond major metropolitan areas, small and mid-sized municipalities also benefit from Accela’s flexible solutions. In Shelby County, Tennessee, local officials have leveraged the platform’s scalability to modernize key processes, ensuring that government services keep pace with population growth and economic expansion without requiring costly, custom-built IT infrastructure.

Building Future-Ready Governments through Innovation

As societies grow and new challenges emerge—from climate resilience and public health preparedness to economic shifts— government agencies must be equipped with future-proof solutions to anticipate, adapt and respond effectively. Accela’s commitment to continuous innovation ensures that governments are not just keeping up with the present but preparing for the future.

Building on its forward-thinking approach, Accela leverages AIdriven analytics and predictive insights to help government agencies identify trends, anticipate service demands, and address issues before they escalate. This proactive approach transforms disaster response planning and economic development into strategic, data-driven decisions.

Strengthening its digital leadership, Accela’s acquisition of OpenCounter enhances automated permitting and licensing, simplifying regulatory navigation for businesses and fueling local economic growth. By reducing administrative burdens, agencies can allocate resources more effectively.

With a presence in over 600 jurisdictions, Accela is a trusted partner in public sector modernization. From urban centers to rural communities, its versatile platform drives efficiency, transparency, and agility in an evolving world.

Today, governments are no longer confined to slow, paper-based processes that hold back progress. With Accela’s innovative solutions, they are confidently stepping into the digital future—serving communities with enhanced efficiency, transparency, and a truly citizen-first approach.