Guidelines for the preparation of specific plans establish format and content requirements which will enable staff to familiarize themselves and more effectively implement the plan. The guidelines may also provide project proponents with an explanation of the required plan elements and how it is utilized by the particular agency. Another option is to utilize computer software programs to aide in administration. For example, Placer County's new On-Line General Plan enables planners to review projects for consistency with the general plan by entering the important characteristics of land development projects into a software program. The program compares the project features with the plan, identifies applicable goals and policies by topical area, and prepares a report.
Similar technology is available to assist in the implementation of the specific plan.