Compare how Fordje and UpCodes support different phases of the build lifecycle, from early design research to jurisdiction-specific deployment decisions in 2025.
UpCodes is designed for early-stage design work. It's primarily used by architects and structural engineers working with I-Codes and state-level standards. It's especially helpful when historical comparisons are needed or when projects don't involve complex local variations.
Fordje is built for teams that need to deploy with confidence across cities, counties, and states. We serve both designers and operators by surfacing city-specific rules like setbacks, overlays, climate zones, and permit conditions before critical decisions are made.
"UpCodes helps you compare what's changed. Fordje helps you act on what's true, right now, at the local level."
| Feature | Fordje | UpCodes |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | City-level zoning and deployment readiness | I-Code and state-level design compliance |
| Key Users | Builders, clean tech deployers, engineers, architects expanding across cities | Architects, structural engineers, code consultants |
| Core Strength | Structured, jurisdiction-specific data across 28,000+ municipalities | State and I-Code access with historical comparisons |
| AI Assistant | Fordje Co-Pilot for local code Q&A and site research | UpCodes Copilot for design review and compliance checklists |
| Structured Data | Actionable outputs (e.g., rear setback = 25ft) across cities | Text and code references in searchable PDF format |
| Local Code Coverage | 28,000+ cities and counties, expanding weekly | ~1,700 jurisdictions focused on ICC and state codebooks |
| Code Laddering | City to county to state to I-Code traceability | Not supported |
| Change Alerts | Real-time notifications for local changes | Not available |
| Integrations | API and CSV data access to any software | BIM tools like Revit for plan compliance |
| Collaboration | Built for teams to align across the full build lifecycle | Design team checklists and document tracking |
| Pricing Model | Tiered SaaS by usage and geography, no per-seat pricing | Per-seat licensing and enterprise packages |
UpCodes is a valuable resource during design. It helps ensure plans align with I-Code and state-level compliance and is especially useful for reviewing historical standards and document versions.
When timelines are tight and decisions need to be made quickly, having instant access to the right code data keeps projects moving.
Fordje gives you answers, not just documents. We surface the local rules that can impact approvals or stall a project - instantly. No long searches. No second-guessing. Just clear, structured data that helps you move forward.
Teams working across jurisdictions choose Fordje when each day matters and when they need to get it right the first time.
