Metadata-driven Platform for Spatial Planning
Context
The province supports local governments in managing spatial planning processes. These processes involve large amounts of data and strict regulations, which posed a major challenge in terms of consistent management.
The information needed to be managed in a structured and efficient way, but all data was spread across different tools and workflows that were interpreted differently depending on the user and department. As a result, there was no clear overview of the correct processes or a standard way of working.
There was also no consistency in terms of documentation. In total, around 500 document variants are delivered to municipalities or used in internal files (e.g. advisory documents), but these also vary strongly depending on the case type and the stage of the process.
That is why they partnered with us to build a digital solution that not only digitizes and largely automates the workflow, but also clearly structures and documents all processes, case types, stages, and associated documents.
What did we achieve?
Due to the enormous matrix of information depending on roughly 50 parameters, and the lack of clarity on which documents should be generated where and how within that matrix, we opted for a fully metadata-driven system.
What does that mean?
What does that mean?
A metadata-driven system is essentially a system whose operation is entirely based on metadata. This allows both us and the client to configure all flows, document types, stages, document elements, document templates, and availability through a user-friendly interface.
Why this approach?
We chose this approach for two main reasons.
Firstly, it provides full flexibility. This was particularly useful because, at the start of the project, another project was still underway to properly map the correct matrix. In addition, it allows the client to independently adapt the system whenever regulations change, ensuring the system behaves according to the updated rules.
Secondly, a major advantage of a metadata-driven system is that the entire configuration also serves as complete documentation of the system’s behavior. For the client, this meant that the system’s functioning and matrix are always up-to-date and documented, since the system operates based on its configuration.
Result
The solution streamlined workflows and reduced manual tasks by digitizing key processes. The platform provides a clear overview of ongoing projects and supports efficient follow-up. In addition, it ensures that data remains consistent and easy to maintain, and enables the automatic generation of around 500 documents depending on the case type and stage.
Added value
With this platform, our clients benefit from: