On September 29, we will introduce to our customers our new state-of-the-art Online Permit System (OPS), which will revolutionize how permits to film on-location are applied for, coordinated and delivered.
The customer-focused component of OPS was designed with input from prospective film industry end-users in an effort to help make their jobs easier. As soon as the system goes live, permit seekers who work with FilmL.A. will be able to apply for permits online and enjoy the many new efficiencies OPS affords, as they:
- create and save templates for future applications;
- receive instant confirmation that permit applications were received;
- track permit progress and status of agency approvals in real-time; and,
- download paid-for and finalized permits at their convenience.
In addition to the option to use OPS, FilmL.A. customers can continue to submit applications in person, by email and by fax as before.
OPS is the product of a three-year investment of time, capital and ingenuity that pushes the limits of the e-commerce model. When consumers purchase books or DVDs online, the products that ship can be identical. By contrast, taking into account the various combinations available on a single film permit — including the size of cast and crew, filming activities and equipment used, lane or road closures, special filming conditions and community concerns — no two film permits are alike.
“We’ve taken e-commerce to new heights,” said FilmL.A. Vice President of Communications Todd Lindgren. “OPS allows users to design and build permits for filming, which are among the most complex and customized products available for order over the internet.”
The public debut of OPS demonstrates our dedication to improving the film permit process in the Los Angeles region for the mutual benefit of our municipal clients, entertainment industry customers and community stakeholders.