Avolve and True North Join Forces to Drive Innovation in Electronic Plan Review

From partnering with local agencies to make development services more efficient, to the strategic business relationships that we foster to serve those communities, partnership is at the core of our business at Avolve Software.  

One of our newest partnerships is with True North Geographic Technologies, an IT services firm that brings a competitive mix of GIS expertise, deep regional ties, and innovative solutions to the public sector.  

True North's Role and Expertise 

True North Geographic Technologies is an award-winning services provider and consulting firm specializing in GIS-centric solutions for local government. Their comprehensive services include implementing Cityworks, a leading permitting system, and are considered to be a versatile and value-add partner to their customers. 

“True North offers a combination of GIS expertise and deep understanding of local government needs,” said Derek Porter, Senior Vice President of Business Development at Avolve Software. “They not only bring technical know-how but also a genuine commitment to solving their clients' problems with the best available solutions.” 

Regional Expertise and Broad Impact 

Based in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, True North has an established presence in the southeastern United States. This regional focus has enabled them to develop deep relationships with local jurisdictions and understand the unique needs of the communities in this area. 

“True North holds long-term relationships with jurisdictions that know and trust them,” noted McKay Johnson, Regional Director of Sales at Avolve. “They have deep insights; understanding the ins and outs of the cities, and their processes. So, they naturally are trusted to provide technology advice and recommend solutions to fulfil local government goals.”  

Porter echoed the same sentiment. “They know their customers, and they understand that as consultants, their job is to solve problems. If they see a client struggling with plan review, they'll recommend our product because they know it can help streamline the permitting process and make it more efficient.” 

Prioritizing a Collaborative Approach  

What sets True North apart is not only the remarkable speed with which our partnership has flourished but also their collaborative approach. Johnson highlighted this team-mentality aspect, noting “It's been a solid partnership in part because we are working on solving pain points for jurisdictions together.” 

And this collaborative spirit extends throughout the entire process. “From when they approach us with a customer who could benefit from electronic plan review because they are facing increasing permit volumes, or lack of transparency across agencies. We then work side by side to ensure that the solution we suggest meets the needs to alleviate those pain points,” explained Johnson.  

“They're responsive, proactive, and truly understand the value of our partnership and what they can jointly deliver for the customer,” said Porter. 

A Partnership Build for the Long-Term 

As we continue to grow and adapt to the evolving needs of the permitting and plan review industries, partners like True North play a crucial role in our success. Their blend of GIS expertise, local knowledge, and commitment to client success offers tight alignment with Avolve's mission to provide innovative solutions for all jurisdictions.