enCodePlus Company Profile

Background

Overview

enCodePlus is a web-based software platform specializing in planning, zoning, and municipal code management for local governments. Developed by the planning experts at Kendig Keast Collaborative (KKC), enCodePlus offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed to streamline the creation, management, and publication of municipal codes and planning documents. The platform serves a diverse clientele, including planners, zoning administrators, clerks, attorneys, managers, economic developers, and consultant partners.

Mission and Vision

enCodePlus aims to modernize and simplify the planning and zoning processes for local governments by providing an integrated, user-friendly platform that enhances collaboration, public engagement, and operational efficiency. The vision is to empower communities with advanced technological solutions that facilitate transparent and effective urban planning and development.

Primary Area of Focus

The platform focuses on digitizing and managing municipal codes, zoning ordinances, and planning documents, enabling local governments to transition from traditional paper-based systems to interactive, web-based solutions. This transition enhances accessibility, transparency, and public participation in the planning process.

Industry Significance

enCodePlus holds a unique position in the municipal planning software industry as the only product of its kind, offering a fully integrated suite of planning and zoning tools. Its innovative approach has set a new standard for municipal code management, influencing how local governments approach urban planning and development.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Digitization of Municipal Codes: Transforming traditional paper-based codes into interactive, web-based formats to improve accessibility and usability.

Enhancing Public Engagement: Providing tools that facilitate public participation and feedback in the planning and zoning processes.

Streamlining Workflow: Integrating various planning and zoning functions into a cohesive platform to improve operational efficiency.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Code Management: Efficient drafting, editing, and publishing of municipal codes and ordinances.

GIS Integration: Incorporating Geographic Information System (GIS) capabilities for spatial analysis and visualization.

Public Access and Transparency: Offering user-friendly interfaces for the public to access and interact with planning documents.

Key Technologies Utilized

Cloud-Based Infrastructure: Ensuring scalable and secure access to planning and zoning documents.

GIS Integration: Utilizing Esri GIS-powered tools for spatial data analysis and visualization.

Interactive Web Interfaces: Developing user-friendly platforms for both internal users and the public.

Primary Markets Targeted

enCodePlus primarily serves local governments, including cities, counties, and municipalities of all sizes, across the United States and Canada. The platform is adaptable to various jurisdictions, from small towns to large metropolitan areas.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

enCodePlus operates as a subsidiary of Kendig Keast Collaborative (KKC), a nationally recognized, multidisciplinary community planning firm. Specific details regarding external funding rounds or investors are not publicly disclosed. The platform's development and operations are supported by KKC's resources and expertise.

Intended Utilization of Capital

While detailed financial allocations are not publicly available, it is understood that capital is utilized for:

Product Development: Enhancing and expanding the platform's features and capabilities.

Customer Support: Providing training, support, and consulting services to clients.

Marketing and Outreach: Promoting the platform to potential clients and stakeholders.

Pipeline Development

As a software platform, enCodePlus does not have a traditional product pipeline. Instead, it focuses on continuous development and enhancement of its features, including:

Site Navigator Tool: A feature that organizes plans, zoning ordinances, and related documents for easy public access.

GIS Integration: Ongoing improvements to integrate GIS capabilities for better spatial analysis and visualization.

Public Engagement Features: Developing tools to facilitate public participation and feedback in the planning process.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

enCodePlus Platform: A unique, web-based technology platform delivering a full suite of planning, zoning, and municipal code tools and features.

Significant Scientific Methods

GIS Integration: Incorporating Esri GIS-powered tools for spatial data analysis and visualization.

Interactive Web Interfaces: Developing user-friendly platforms for both internal users and the public.

Leadership Team

Bret C. Keast, AICP – CEO

Bret Keast is the CEO of enCodePlus and its parent company, Kendig Keast Collaborative. He has over 35 years of experience in community planning and zoning, leading numerous projects across the United States.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The municipal planning software industry is evolving, with increasing demand for digital solutions that enhance efficiency, transparency, and public engagement. enCodePlus stands out as the only platform offering a fully integrated suite of planning and zoning tools.

Competitor Analysis

While enCodePlus is unique in its comprehensive offerings, other companies provide related services, such as codification and document management. However, enCodePlus differentiates itself through its specialized focus on planning and zoning, GIS integration, and public engagement features.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

enCodePlus collaborates with various local governments and planning agencies to implement its platform, including notable partnerships with cities like Savannah, GA, and Overland Park, KS.

Operational Insights

enCodePlus operates with a small, dedicated team, leveraging the resources and expertise of its parent company, Kendig Keast Collaborative. This structure allows for agile development and personalized customer support.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

enCodePlus continues to enhance its platform by integrating emerging technologies, expanding its feature set, and increasing its market presence to serve a broader range of local governments.