Agenda - 02-03-1998 - 9b - Laserfiche WebLink

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E ~ ~- . information and referral services. In the spring of 1995, the concept and implementation of a computerized system was endorsed with the primary goal of improving coordination and communication among human services agencies. In Fiscal Year 1995/96 the computerized information and referral system was developed with funding from Orange County, United Way, and the Partnership for Young Children. The UNC-School of Social Work, Human Services Smart Agency provided the software/ hardware and technical support for implementation of the system. From the spring of 1996 until the present, the United Way has operated the computerized information and referral system under contract with the County. Issues • Amore accurate evaluation instrument must be developed to measure agencies expectations and use of the computerized system. • Human services agencies need ongoing technical support. • The system should permit easier access for update by users, possibly via the internet. • Training for agency users must be improved. • The Orange Book should be developed periodically to supplement the computerized system. • Marketing for the system should be developed to increase visibility. After discussing the history and issues, the participants at the December 16th meeting concluded . that the goal of the computerized information and referral system "provide for an effective information and referral s~~stem in the community that links people in need of help with community resources and documents the results of interaction between clients and agencies" remains important. In order to obtain the goal, the following key elements of a computerized information and referral system must be addressed 1) assessment, 2) updating and maintaining the database, 3) system support, 4) updating the Orange Book, 5) marketing and 6) telephone call-in function. Assessment Development of assessment instruments that will measure the expectations of the computerized system; assess the agencies use of the database and barriers to using the system; and identify changes needed. Updating and maintaining the database This includes updating the current database and developing an Internet update system which would allow an agency to update its information anytime on-line and have it sent to a data administrator to enter into the system. System Su~ort Supporting the software, hardware and training the users of the system. Updating the Orange Book Developing a loose leaf binder to supplement the computerized information and referral system. The Orange Book would be used by community members and agencies that prefer a hard copy of the database.