Question from Rhode Island

In their efforts to improve continuous engagement for TANF participants, a Rhode Island subcommittee of its Welfare Reform Information Task Force is asking if any state has devised a system of notification via computer between case manager(s) and vendors who provide services for TANF clients. Although the state already has a well developed paper notification system between itself and its vendors, it would like to automate notifications and make a 'paperless' system. The state would like to know if any states have developed a way to communicate the individuals' employability plan on the computer as a WORD document to its contractors, receiving the plan back as items are completed or not and/or outlining progress in specific activities. A best case scenario would be a family plan available in 'real time.' Such a plan would be accessible to vendors who could place notes or comments in the plan on the screen or even track attendance. This screen might be available in various forms to all involved in the plan, including the client. The state could then use this document on the screen to plot the client's progress, pay vendors timely and provide for plan changes while keeping abreast of client's activities - even daily, as needed.