Introduction to Plotwise
Welcome to Plotwise documentation - your comprehensive guide to permit tracking, real-time alerts, and construction intelligence.
Welcome to Plotwise documentation. This guide will help you get the most out of the platform, whether you're tracking a handful of permits or managing hundreds across multiple jurisdictions.
What is Plotwise?
Plotwise is an intelligent permit tracking system that brings order to the chaos of scattered permit data. Instead of checking jurisdiction portals one by one, Plotwise aggregates records from city, county, and state databases, tracks changes automatically, and delivers notifications so you can focus on managing projects—not chasing data.
All permits in one place. The full picture. No missed details.
How It Works
Plotwise combines five intelligent layers to transform fragmented permit data into actionable insights:
- Real-Time Monitoring - Continuously tracks jurisdictions and delivers updates via email and SMS the moment permit data changes
- Intelligent Prioritization - Focuses your attention on permits most likely to need action based on deadlines and activity patterns
- Automated Discovery - Finds permits matching your criteria (companies, licenses, locations) without manual searching
- Change Verification - Every update is timestamped and verified, providing a transparent history you can trust
- Unified Data - Normalizes records from different jurisdictions into a consistent, searchable format
Key Concepts
Before diving in, familiarize yourself with these core terms:
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Permit | A building permit record from a jurisdiction, normalized and enriched with tracking features |
| Organization | Your workspace in Plotwise with its own permits, team members, and settings |
| Active Permit Slot | One slot tracks one permit with notifications enabled during your billing period |
| Seat | A team member within your organization with their own login and preferences |
| Portfolio | Auto-discovery of permits from known entities you work with regularly |
| Radar | Discovery of new permits nearby or from potential clients for business development |
| Priority Status | Prediction of when a permit is likely to need attention |
For complete definitions, see the Glossary.
Who Uses Plotwise?
Plotwise adapts to how you work, whether you're tracking one permit or hundreds:
-
Contractor Owners - See all permits tied to your license across jurisdictions. Track inspections, avoid delays, and stay on top of every project.
-
Office Administrators - Replace spreadsheets and inbox chaos with one centralized system for permits, tasks, and team coordination.
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Permit Expediters - Manage dozens of client permits across cities and counties. Prove diligence, show real-time progress, and deliver results.
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Trade Subcontractors - Track permits connected to your company even when someone else filed them. Know when to show up and coordinate with GCs.
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Developers & Investors - Monitor construction activity in target markets. Detect early signals, understand trends, and identify opportunities.
Documentation Overview
This documentation is organized into seven sections, accessible from the sidebar:
Getting Started
New to Plotwise? Begin here:
- Creating Your Account - Sign up and verify your email
- Onboarding Walkthrough - Set up your profile and organization
- Understanding Your Dashboard - Navigate the interface
- Quick Start Guide by Role - Role-specific checklists
Core Features
Learn the main tools for tracking and discovering permits:
- Watchlist - Your central hub for tracked permits
- Portfolio - Auto-discover permits from known entities
- Market Radar - Find new permits and opportunities nearby
- Contacts - Manage relationships with permit contacts
Notifications & Alerts
Stay informed about permit changes:
- Overview - How notifications work
- Email Notifications - Configure email alerts
- SMS Notifications - Set up text message alerts
- Managing Preferences - Customize what you receive
Settings & Configuration
Customize Plotwise for your needs:
- Account Settings - Profile, security, and personal preferences
- Organization Settings - Team, billing, and API access
Advanced Topics
Power user features:
- Bulk Operations - Manage multiple permits at once
- Search & Filtering - Find exactly what you need
- Data Export - Download your data
- Multi-Organization - Manage multiple workspaces
Reference
Technical details and definitions:
- Permit Statuses - Status categories explained
- Priority Status - Prediction system details
- Event Scopes - Notification categories
- API Documentation - Integrate with your systems
- Glossary - Term definitions
Troubleshooting & Support
Get help when you need it:
- Common Issues - Quick solutions
- Performance - Browser and speed tips
- Getting Help - Contact support
Quick Start Paths
Using the Documentation
Search: Press Cmd+K (Mac) or Ctrl+K (Windows) to search across all pages.
Navigation: Use the sidebar on the left to browse by section. On each page, the table of contents on the right links to specific topics.
Need help? Visit Getting Help for support contact information.
Compliance
For SMS notification compliance documentation (required by Twilio), see SMS Opt-In Evidence.