Development Services
BuildSA Project

Office & Location

Development Services Department Map

Cliff Morton Development and Business Services Center
1901 South Alamo Street
San Antonio, TX 78204

Visit our Office
Includes visitor check in information and safety measures at DSD.

Phone:
210.207.1111

Hours:
7:45 am - 4:30 pm (Mon - Fri)
Closed on City Holidays

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BUILDSA PROJECT OVERVIEW

We are excited to share BuildSA – Land Development Phase 1 launched on Oct. 1, 2018. What is BuildSA? BuildSA is the designated name of the project or software system that will either re-place or integrate with many of the systems we use today. The provider or vendor of the system is Accela. BuildSA will make doing business with Development Services and our partnering agencies easier, faster, and more efficient.

Since the Land Development launch in 2018, we have been working hard to deliver a new system for Code Enforcement and Building/Fire Permits and License Registration records. We are pleased to share Code Enforcement will go live on Sept. 21, 2020, and the Building/Fire Permits and License Registration is on track to launch on Nov. 30.

BuildSA is on track to go live with the Code Enforcement and Building/Fire Permits and License Registration releases this fall.

Code Enforcement will launch on Sept. 21, 2020 and Building/Fire Permits and License Registration on Nov. 30. The timeline shows activities scheduled over the next couple of months for the upcoming releases.

To prepare for the launch dates, critical activities will take place including User Acceptance Testing (UAT) and training.

UAT is essential to the success of the go live event. It allows us to test the system and identify issues that may surface once released. Issues found during UAT are corrected prior to the launch to avoid potential problems. Staff and development community stakeholders will participate in UAT.

Training for each release will be conducted online and via WebEx. The online training sessions will be led by SMEs. Each class will have a small number of participants to make sure the training is conducive to learning the system well and will offer a Q&A session.  Online tutorials will also be available for self-paced learning. Training for staff and customers will continue after each launch to ensure all those using BuildSA are familiar with its functionality.
 

Did you know?

BuildSA brings convenience, efficiency and management of records to your fingertips, making it easier to do business with us. Highlights include:

  • Customers can access BuildSA 24x7 to request services or perform various functions such as pay fees, check application status and upload documents
  • BuildSA will enable customers to pay some fees in phases
  • In-flight records will remain in Hansen for approximately six months after go-live. After six months open permit records will be transferred to BuildSA
  • All issued Certificate of Occupancy certificates will be migrated from Hansen to BuildSA for easier access
  • Escrow accounts will be closed in Hansen and refund fees will be waived 

During this time of transition, we will be operating under two systems, Hansen and BuildSA. In the meantime, be assured we will have plenty of training opportunities for our customers in the coming months, along with tutorials for self-paced learning.
 

After Go-Live:

Our BuildSA team will be available as work continues through 2021. During this period:

  • additional training will be scheduled as needed
  • feedback from stakeholders will be garnered and assessed
  • backlog items and other changes to the system will be implemented
  • the BuildSA Team will work with customers and staff to help during the transition


For questions, please email us at buildsaocmteam@sanantonio.gov.

BUILDSA TRAINING SCHEDULE

Our DSD BuildSA Support team offers training throughout the year. To register for training, please email us at DSDBuildSASupport@sanantonio.gov. Be sure to include the course and date you are signing up for.  

Training Schedule:

o 10/9/20 - BuildSA Portal Changes - Submitting Records in BuildSA

o 10/16/20 - BuildSA Portal Changes - Submitting Records in BuildSA

o 11/13/20 - Creating Amending Plats in BuildSA 

o 12/11/20 - Creating Minor Plats in BuildSA

Due to COVID-19 and the social distancing requirements, all classes will be held via WebEx video conferencing. 

 

Welcome to the BuildSA Online Training Resource Center!

Our goal is to make sure that BuildSA users have the opportunity to gain practical experience through hands-on practice. Creating the correct training environment was a strong consideration and for that reason, the Training Room located on the second floor of the One Stop is a dedicated BuildSA Training Lab. The Training Lab has 16 dedicated computers and will be used to deliver training to Development Services Staff, partnering agencies and customers.

Training Lab

Resources:

 

Additional Resources:


Welcome to the BuildSA Online Training Resource Center!

This page features access to training resources that have been created for our customers. The training materials are meant to help you, the user, navigate BuildSA.

The User Guide and the Online Training Modules provide essential information about the functionality of BuildSA and use an easy-to follow, step-by-step method.

By Creating an Online Portal Account, you will have the ability to submit applications online, real time access to your applications, ability  to make payments online, search for application information, ability to submit documents electronically. 

Note to Existing Customers: 
All records in the status of "Approved," "Recorded" and "Under Review" have been migrated to our new BuildSA system. If you are an existing customer, please use the same contact information as shown in the List of Existing Records when creating your Citizen Access online portal account to gain instant access to your applications. Should the contact information not be current, or if it is invalid, follow the instructions found in Information Bulletin 300 to claim your record (s).

Escrow Accounts:
Escrow accounts are now available for Land Development customers. To learn more, review our new Escrow Account brochure today!  

Customer Resources:

Citizen Access User Guide

Online Citizen Access
User Guide

 

Quick Guides

Citizen Access Application & Inspection Submittal

Citizen Access Creating an Online Portal Account

Citizen Access Uploading Documents

Citizen Access Add/Remove a Contact

Citizen Access Escrow Accounts Land Development Paying Fees

Citizen Access Withdrawal Refund Escrow Accounts

Frequently Asked Questions

BuildSA Electronic Document Review FAQ

 

Training Modules

Citizen Access Delegate vs Contact

Claim Your Record PIN Number

Citizen Access Create an Account Lesson 1

Citizen Access  Account Management Lesson 2

Citizen Access Delegate Management Lesson 3

Citizen Access Create an Application Lesson 4

Citizen Access Viewing Application Information Lesson 5

Citizen Access Paying Fees Lesson 6

Citizen Access Related Records Lesson 7

Citizen Access Creating & Managing Collections Lesson 8

Citizen Access Checking Application Status Lesson 9

Citizen Access Activity Report Lesson 10

Citizen Access Electronic Document Submittal Lesson 11

Citizen Access Add/Remove a Contact Lesson 13


Citizen Access Create an Escrow Account

 

Training Videos

 

 

How to Create an Online Portal Account

How to Check the Status

How to Search (Non-Registered Users)

How to Create an Application

           

 

Welcome to the BuildSA Online Training Resource Center!

This page features access to training resources that have been created for our staff. The training materials are meant to help you, the user, navigate BuildSA.

The User Guide and the Online Training Modules provide essential information about the functionality of BuildSA and use an easy-to follow, step-by-step method.

Additional resources will be made available as they are developed.

Feel free to view or download any of the materials provided. Check the BuildSA Training Calendar for training opportunities.

Learn, Prepare, Practice!

Staff Resources:

Staff User Guide


Staff User Guide

 

 Quick Guides

Adding A Filter User Guide

BuildSA Terminology

PIN Numbers Info for Staff

Short Term Rental (STR) Application Quick Reference Guide

Short Term Rental (STR) Permit Quick Reference Guide

Short Term Rental (STR) Renewal Quick Reference Guide

Searching for Specific Record Types Guide

 Training Modules:

Module One- Introduction to BuildSA

Module Two- Task Card vs. List View

Module Three- Your Pages, All Pages, Favorites

Module Four- Main Menu, Pinning Spaces

Module Five- Creating, Searching and Updating Records; Custom Fields, Lists and Documentation

Module Six- Searching for APOs

Module Seven- APO Conditions, Record Conditions, APO Owners

Module Eight- Workflow Process;  Task Update and Workflow Comments

Module Nine- My Reports, Pre-Existing Reports, Unassigned Review Tasks

Module Ten- Transactional Record Emails

Module Eleven- Associating Records, Related Records, Cloning Single

Module Twelve- Meeting Management

 

Adobe Acrobat for BuildSA EDR (Electronic Document Review)

BuildSA users will utilize Adobe Acrobat to perform document revisions in the EDR (Electronic Document Review) component. Adobe Acrobat is a software developed by Adobe Systems to view, edit, print and manage files in Portable Document Format (PDF). Using Adobe Acrobat enables users to instantly edit PDF scanned documents.

To access the complete library of Adobe Systems’ tutorials visit their website.

The following videos are highly recommended for BuildSA users using Adobe to perform edits:

Get to know about Adobe Acrobat Reader

Work with PDFs online

Insert and organize pages in a PDF

Edit a PDF

Create PDF from Microsoft Office

Edit Text and images in PDF

Combine documents into PDF

Add sticky notes and other annotations

Extract a Page from PDF

Split a document

Export a PDF to Microsoft Office Formats

 

About BuildSA

Collapse All Expand All
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Which browser is best to use for BuildSA?
Internet Explorer is the preferred browser for use with BuildSA
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Whom do I contact for help creating an account or navigating the system?
The BuildSA Customer Call Center is available M-F, 7:45am to 4:30pm. Please contact the BuildSA Customer Call Center at 210-207-1111 (select Option 5).
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  To Access BuildSA from the Development Services Department Website, follow the steps below:
Visit the Development Services Department Homepage, click the BuildSA Logo. (www.sanantonio.gov/dsd)
Note: Ensure that you allow Pop-Ups from this site. Allowing pop-ups ensures that vital forms display for your use.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  How do I allow pop-ups on Internet Explorer?
  • Open Internet Explorer
  • Go to settings in your browser (located on the top right hand side of the page)
  • Select Internet Options
  • Select the Privacy Tab
  • Uncheck the option to Turn On Pop-Up Blocker
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What is the BuildSA Project?
BuildSA is the designated name of the project or software system that will either replace or integrate with many of the systems we use today. The provider of the system is Accela, and through its Accela Civic Platform, Development Services will streamline the delivery of its services.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What is the BuildSA Story?

June 2015-Accela Contract Signed

Spring 2016-Fit Gap Analysis Conducted

December 2016-Project Work Suspended

February 2017-Meeting With Accela

April 2017-Alternative Implementation Approach Explored

June 2017-Beginning of Path Forward with GCOM (New Vendor)

August 2017-New Vendor! New Approach! 

Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  How is the BuildSA Project structured?

Due to the complexity of our business and the amount of resources required to deploy a system like this, the project is divided into two phases that follow the development process:

  • Phase 1 includes activities associated with horizontal development such as zoning, platting and construction inspections.
  • Phase 2 is for activities associated with horizontal construction, such as plan review, permitting, inspections, building-related fire permits and includes code enforcement activities.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Who is impacted by BuildSA?

Customers seeking to build, develop or improve property in the City of San Antonio and surrounding areas will have access to new capabilities and will be introduced to new ways of submitting applications, making payments and interacting with City and partnering agency staff.

Development Services Staff and Partnering Agencies, who are considered Core Users, will have access to new capabilities. Both groups will receive training to learn how to effectively use the new system in order to transact with the citizens of San Antonio.

 

 

Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Where can I find more information on the BuildSA Project?

Information about the project can be found in the Project Newsletters or on this Project Website. You can also obtain information from your Change Managers or designated Change Agent. 

Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Who is Accela?

Accela is the provider of the software system and, through its Accela Civic Platform, will help Development Services streamline the delivery of its services. Accela has been the industry leader in designing and delivering productivity and engagement software to help government agencies deliver their best customer service.

To learn more about Accela and their Accela Civic Platform, visit their website.

Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Who is GCOM?

GCOM is the integrator for the complete implementation of BuildSA for Land Development. GCOM is Accela's largest certified partner and has previously participated as a subcontractor on the BuildSA Project in the areas of data conversion and integration.

To learn more about GCOM and their services, please visit their website http://www.gcomsoft.com/.

Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  When does BuildSA launch or go live?

BuildSA is projected to take several years to complete. Due to the complexity of our business and the amount of resources required to implement a system like this, the project is divided into two phases, Land Development and Building Development & Code Enforcement.

 

Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What are  project 'Sprints'?

The goal of a four-week 'sprint' is to take a subset of functionality and deliver a potentially working piece of the final software product.

Each four-week sprint takes us from good to great! The steps in each sprint consist of:

  1. Discover & Define
  2. Design, Develop, Demo & Prototype
  3. GCOM Test
  4.  BuildSA Test Complete
  5. Close & Plan.

. 

Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Who is BuildSA's Product Owner?

Ms. Terry Kannawin, DSD Assistant Director, is the BuildSA Project Product Owner.

The Product Owner is the person representing the business and the customer. The Product Owner brings the voice of the customer and the BuildSA business teams together. The Product Owner also promotes and guards all BuildSA standards and packages information for the Steering Committee and the Governance Board.

Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What are the Project Accomplishments to date?

The Project Accomplishments to date include:

  • Seven System Interfaces
  • 100+ Reports
  • BuildSA website
  • Design and development of several end-user manuals
  • LDS, TPLTS Zoning Data
  • Vetted 2000+ requirements
  • Configured 32 record types
  • Built seven environments.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What is the scope of Phase 1 with GCOM?
The scope of Phase 1 is to complete the replacement of the LDS/TPLT systems and address the gaps in delivery and known issues/defects that resulted from the previous BuildSA implementation work.  
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Will we have access to any historical data/information?

Yes. Some data will not migrate and will be stored and accessible by staff as needed.  All end-users will receive training on accessing stored data.

  
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What is a prototype?

A prototype is a sample or model built to show a process or a concept of the system. This is often used to provide a brief insight on how the system will look and work.

Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What is the role of the BuildSA Project Governance Committee?
The BuildSA Project Governance Committee is comprised of several City of San Antonio leaders. Their role is to make project related decisions regarding policy and strategy and to support overall project oversight. 
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Who can I contact with questions about the project?

There are several ways you can reach out to us if you have questions about BuildSA.

You can email the Organizational Change Team at buildsaocmteam@sanantonio.gov.

You can contact your designated Change Agent. For a list of all Change Agents, go to FAQ, Who are the assigned Change Agents?

 

  
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What kind of features can Customers expect with BuildSA?

Customers will have several features including:

  • Finding the appropriate application and helpful tips about the application process using the permit wizard.
  • The ability to submit applications 24 hours a day/7 days a week.
  • Schedule and track inspections online from any computer or from a mobile device.
  • Access to submit online payments using credit card or escrow account.
  • Access to real time support from our staff using Live Chat.
  • Ability to track application activity and view real time status.
  • System generated email notifications for activities such as application confirmation, inspection status and application results.
  • Access to the Accela Mobile Application which may be used to schedule and track inspections.
  • The ability to submit documents electronically for review by staff.

Development Services Staff and Partnering Agencies, who are considered Core Users, will have access to new capabilities.  Both groups will receive training to learn how to effectively use the new system in order to transact with their customers.

Core Users will have the ability to:

  • View and manage tasks using a workflow management system.
  • Use a single source of information to deliver all services.
  • Receive and process documents submitted electronically.
  • Benefit from BuildSA’s capability to generate appropriate application fees.
  • Seamless access and integration to other systems such as the City Council Agenda System (Legistar), Bexar County Appraisal District System (BCAD), and the City’s Municipal Court System.
  • Ability to view and track all activity by site or location address, helping them make better informed decisions. 
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Will Electronic Plan Review still be available?

Yes, the existing electronic plan review system will be replaced with Accela’s integrated e-Plan Check. 

 With Accela’s integrated solution, customers will submit their documents with their online application.

BuildSA will be a paperless, web-based solution that will allow Development Services and partnering agencies to review, markup and comment on documents-- eliminating the need for paperwork that typically accompanies paper-based reviews. BuildSA’s solution will allow concurrent reviews and better collaboration among the various agencies, providing customers with clear feedback.

What's Changing?

Collapse All Expand All
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Which systems will be replaced?

Most of the system Development Services uses today will either be replaced or integrated. Here are just a few examples:

  • Hansen
  • ECCO
  • LDS
  • TPLT
  • Customer Alert System (CAS)
  • Dynamic Portal
  • Mobile Inspector
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  How will I find out about changes that will impact my section?

The BuildSA Team has been communicating progress on the project in the BuildSA Newsletter.  Newsletters are distributed to internal staff and partnering agencies. In addition, this project website provides relevant information.

If you are impacted by BuildSA, a representative from your area has been assigned as a “Change Agent.” Change Agents work in partnership with the BuildSA Team to share information and answer questions related to the BuildSA project.  For information as to who has been assigned to your area, please refer to the question "Who are the assigned Change Agents?"

Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What is a Change Network Team?

A Change Agent Network is a team of Subject Matter Experts from each business area that convey awareness and understanding of anticipated BuildSA changes to their fellow employees.

Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What is a Change Agent?
A Change Agent is a Subject Matter Expert within a given business area that functions as a bridge between the BuildSA Project Team and impacted employees. Change Agents provide support to employees impacted by the BuildSA Project.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Who are the assigned Change Agents?
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What does a Change Agent do?

Change Agents participate in meetings with the BuildSA Team to learn about new BuildSA technology and serve as liaisons to communicate vital information to other employees in their area. Change Agents support various project activities which may include training, roadshows, system testing and answering questions with regard to BuildSA.

Training

Collapse All Expand All
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What type of training will we receive?

The BuildSA Team is working on the development of hands-on training sessions using ’scenarios’ or real-life examples for Development Services Staff and partnering agencies. This type of learning also involves interpersonal skills such as teamwork and communication.

The BuildSA Team will conduct training workshops for our citizens and the development community. Self-paced, on-line training modules will be developed for more widely used processes.

Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Will the training occur prior to launching the new system?

Yes, the BuildSA Team is will train each group and hold several BuildSA Roadshows throughout each phase. A roadshow offers an opportunity to demonstrate the system to end users. Users of the BuildSA System will be able to interact with the system and ask questions. Roadshows and training will take place during the release of each phase and will be specific to the functionality for that phase. Please check back for specific dates and training information as the project progresses.