Technology Solutions for Human Services

Technology Solutions for Human Services

In today's world there are many barriers that can prevent us from providing services to the individuals that are counting on us the most. Lack of funding, the inability to quickly and share information, and transportation are among a few of the barriers. Finding the right software application to pull it all together can be a challenge. Linking all of the information together into one place that everyone can access would be the best solution.

Barriers

While there are many barriers to services the three that were chosen are funding, transportation, and information collecting and sharing. These barriers can be overcome or at the very least lessened with technology.

Funding in the non-profit sector of human services is a challenge in and of itself. Non-profits can be resistant to information technology which would make it is easier to gather information to prepare a grant or proposal for funding. Being able to access information from management, departments, board members, and other sources within the organization is a vital part of the funding process.

"Both grant seekers and grant makers tend to think only of the capitol cost of technology, ignoring ongoing soft costs, such as how much staff time they invest in planning, implementation, and training" (techsoup, 2002).

This leads to the second barrier information collecting and sharing. Some agencies do not have technology in place that allows a caseworker to input information in a timely and accurate manner. Cases may be transferred from one caseworker to the next and the new caseworker could benefit from up to the minute information that is easily accessible. "Given the complexity of case record requirements today, such tasks are impossible in a paper-only case record" (techsoup, 2002).

Transportation is also a barrier in human services. Individuals with disabilities, debilitating illness, and younger clients who are unable to drive may not be able to make it to appointments. The client may not be able to meet with his or her caseworker or other agency. In rural areas there may not be buses or taxis that the client can use. There may also be a mental deficit for many of the clients so that he or she would not be able to schedule transportation even if it was available.

Clients may be instructed and coached on how to use the internet to browse website or have access to important information without having to leave his or her home. Email and text messaging might also be a way to get the necessary information to the client. If the client or caregiver is unable to make transportation arrangements then technology may be helpful.

Community Development

Community development to assist with these barriers may be providing