Agenda - 12-01-1997 - 9c - Laserfiche WebLink

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j In August 1995, the County entered into an agreement with the United Way of Greater Orange County to develop a county-wide computerized I&R system for ' human services and provide ongoing administration. In January 1996, the United Way of Orange, Wake and Durham Counties consolidated to form the Triangle United Way. In March 1996. the Computerized I&R became operational and officially named the "Orange Resource Connection". Staff turnover and reassignment of duties among the personnel of the new Triangle United Way created service gaps during the period of May 1996 to September 1996. In October 1996, the new United Way staff began an intensive effort to eliminate service gaps and improve the system. In June 1996, the Partnership for Young Children approved $19,720 and County allocated $31,000 to the Triangle United Way for administration of the ORC during the 1996-97 fiscal year. In June 1997, the Partnership for Young Children did not approve funding for the ORC. The County included $31,000 for fiscal year 1997-98 budget for ORC, however, an agreement with the Triangle United Way has not been approved by the Board. At the September 16, 1997 Commissioners Meeting, the Board did not approve an agreement with the Triangle United Way for administration of the ORC. The Board expressed concerns regarding the ORC and requested staff to report on the effectiveness of the computerized system. In October 1997, the Manager's Office surveyed the 54 users (human services agencies) that have installed the software which is the I&R system. Approximately 28 users responded to the survey. The survey results are attached. (Please note that the name of the software package is IRis and is mentioned several times in survey). Most users believe the ORC is an important resource and a better I&R tool than the Orange Book. Although the ORC was viewed favorably, the experiences with the software package and actual usage varied greatly among agencies. The Triangle United Way has submitted goals, outcomes and funding options for the ORC (pages 6-11) and will demonstrate the IRis software package. The Partnership For Young Children(Smart Start) plans to reconsider funding for the ORC, since additional funding has been provided by the State to that agency recently. RECOMMENDATION(S): The manager recommends that Board renew the performance agreement with the Triangle United Way to administer the Orange Resource Connection.