In high-risk industries like oil and gas, manufacturing, utilities, and construction, robust permit to work (PTW) systems are fundamental to safe operations. Yet while most organisations have embraced digital transformation in areas such as finance, HR, and supply chain, many still rely on paper-based permit systems for safety-critical tasks—leaving them exposed to inefficiencies, operational risk, and compliance gaps.
If you're still unsure whether your organisation would benefit from electronic permit to work software, this short business case will help clarify why ePTW is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing solutions in industrial safety and operations.
Whilst outlining the need for digital transformation in permit management, this business case uses iPermit, IAMTech’s electronic permit to work (ePTW) software, as an example of a proven, cost-effective solution.
1. The Problem: Outdated Permit Systems Pose Serious Risks
Organisations using traditional paper-based permit systems face a growing list of challenges:
- Safety and Compliance Risks: Manual processes increase the likelihood of errors, omissions, or misplaced documentation, potentially leading to accidents or regulatory non-compliance.
- Operational Inefficiencies: Paper permits are time-consuming to create, duplicate, and track—delaying critical maintenance and project work.
- Limited Visibility: Real-time oversight is nearly impossible, restricting proactive intervention and control.
- Administrative Overload: Staff spend excessive time recreating permits, archiving documents, and managing data manually.
- Loss of Corporate Knowledge: As experienced personnel retire, reliance on informal processes and undocumented knowledge becomes increasingly risky.
2. Objectives: Why switch to Electronic Permit to Work
Implementing a digital permit to work solution enables organisations to:
- Enhance worker safety and compliance with standards such as ISO 45001 and OSHA
- Improve efficiency and reduce downtime with automated workflows
- Minimise human error through integrated safety modules and process controls
- Provide real-time permit visibility to decision-makers across locations
- Eliminate paper-based storage and manual recordkeeping
- Facilitate faster audits with searchable digital trails and dashboard KPIs
3. The Solution: iPermit by IAMTech
iPermit is a comprehensive electronic permit to work software platform that centralises, automates, and simplifies permit processes for high-risk work.
Key features include:
- Real-Time Permit Mapping & SIMOPS Management
Visualise permits across facilities, identify overlapping tasks, and ensure safe work coordination. - Integrated Safety Modules
Built-in Job Safety Analysis (JSA) and Isolation Control tools, included at no extra cost, allow users to evaluate risks and manage isolations from the same interface. - Cloud-Based Access & Mobile Support
Issue, approve, and monitor permits from any device. - Digital Signatures & Audit Trails
Ensure accountability and compliance with digitally verified workflows. - Email Alerts & Dashboards
Stay informed with automated status notifications and monitor permit activity in real-time. - Rapid Deployment & Self-Configuration
iPermit can be implemented in weeks, and trained users can maintain the system without vendor reliance.
Watch webinar “Three Key Benefits of ePTW Software”
4. Financial Case: Reduce Cost, Not Capability
Organisations that implement iPermit typically benefit from:
- Increased tool-time due to faster permit turnaround
- Fewer incidents from improved safety controls
- Reduction of physical storage costs
- Reduced admin workload and duplication
- Transparent, per-user pricing—no hidden fees, no unnecessary add-ons
Out of all other electronic permit to work providers surveyed in the market, including Prometheus Group, Wolters Kluwer (Enablon), GemSoft7, Sphera, Intelex, Lucidity, Aveva, NiSoft, Maximl, Elecosoft (ShireSystem), and Yokogawa RAP, only iPermit openly displays its pricing model and lists exactly what is included within the subscription. iPermit also includes modules many competitors charge extra for, such as JSA and isolations, making it not only a technically advanced solution but also a cost-effective one.
5. Implementation: Structured, Supported, and Rapid
IAMTech supports every implementation through structured workshops:
- Workshop 1 – Listen: IAMTech maps your current permit process
- Workshop 2 – Explain: Demonstration of out-of-the-box workflows
- Workshop 3 – Agree: Finalise and configure your desired workflow
Training, stakeholder engagement, and a clear change management plan ensure fast, effective adoption.
Unlike many electronic permit systems that take months to implement, iPermit is ready to deploy out of the box and can be fully operational in just a few weeks. It’s a fast, flexible control of work solution that helps organisations make a confident and efficient transition from paper-based processes to a modern, digital system.
6. Risk Mitigation: Trusted Process, Proven Support
IAMTech brings over two decades of experience in industrial software solutions. Common risks such as poor adoption, confusion in terminology, or stakeholder disengagement are addressed proactively through clear documentation, hands-on training, and 24/7 customer support.
7. Success Criteria
Success can be measured through:
- Demonstrable improvements in safety performance
- Reduced permit turnaround time
- Increased visibility and data-driven decision making
- Audit readiness with digital records
- High user adoption with minimal external support
Conclusion: A Safer, Smarter Way to Work
The case for transitioning to electronic permit to work software is clear. Paper-based systems are no longer fit for purpose in a world that demands real-time insight, automation, and accountability.
With its user-friendly interface, integrated safety modules, and transparent pricing, iPermit is a powerful tool that helps organisations digitise their PTW process without complexity or cost overruns.
Next Steps
If you're considering the move to an electronic permit to work system, we're happy to help.
IAMTech will prepare a free, personalised business case tailored to your organisation's needs—no obligation required.
Contact us today to request your business case and let us show you how going digital with iPermit can drive measurable safety, efficiency, and cost improvements in your operation.
