The previous sections of this guide have highlighted the advantages of particular approaches to providing a one stop shop service. Here we summarise the general benefits. 10.2 Improved efficiency and effectiveness Most of the improvements in performance and user satisfaction described in this guide were achieved at little or no extra cost. There were set-up costs but the pilot authorities developed their services without any permanent, additional funding. 10.3 Improvement in the quality of applications By increasing the input at the pre-application stage of a project, authorities found that submitted applications were more likely to be complete, with fewer questions and issues to be resolved during the processing of the application.
Authorities describe a shift from enforcement to enabling.
Attempts to resolve difficulties and provide information at the earlier stages of a project meant that fewer changes were needed once detailed plans were made or construction began and, ultimately, enforcement action could be avoided. It is important to note, however, that authorities were aware that much of their enforcement action was concerned with developments which had not been through the required approval processes, so the impact of the one stop shop would always be limited by this. 10.5 Improved communication within the authority Improved information systems have facilitated communications between departments and functions within them. Authorities said that, as a result, officers were better informed and spent less time pursuing enquiries. The new ways of working could result in an increase in paperwork but it was often possible to absorb this because of an overall improvement in efficiency.