Implementation: at our sites

A beta version of CappsDATA was introduced to services of Alternatives for People with Autism, Inc. in August of 1998. The clients are 18 adults impaired by autism and mental retardation. Alternatives for People with Autism has applied for, and received, a patent of the CappsDATA methods.

The initial, trial phase was short-lived because staff quickly accepted it, and it replaced all other methods and processes of service planning and delivery. The most recent versions are implemented using a mixture of Windows 9X/2000/NT/XP computers. Virtual Private Networking is implemented for authorized external access. Four of the PC's are in kiosks that are in the living areas of the clients. All hardware is "off-the-shelf" with the exception of those in the kiosks which use touch-screens so that busy staff can access them quickly while standing.

The software has been under continuous development and improvement since 1998. Its evolution is directly influenced by (a) issues of user efficiency, (b) improving technology of service delivery, (c) psychometric considerations of data definition and accuracy, and (d) expanding demands upon the databases for reporting and analysis. It is primarily written in Pascal using Borland's Delphi (6) which supports a relatively rapid development environment as well as efficient database implementation.

The development of CappsDATA has been motivated by the desire to improve our own person-to-person services. It has depended upon retirement activities of the board president and heroic efforts by a number of committed and responsible staff. We have met our original goals and feel that we have done so exceedingly well. Now, we feel that the process could be valuable in the many industries that provide person-to-person services.

CappsDATA is currently developing beta sites. Implementation at different services will further enhance the application process. The beta sites will result in valuable information related to consumer satisfaction and user feedback.

Consortium Services: Potential implementation at your sites

The CappsDATA process will soon be available to interested human service organizations. We are forming a nonprofit consortium with the mission of harnessing this power of technology to improve program services. CappsDATA will be admitting members to a consortium of service providers who have a shared interest in quality program services. Membership services include installation of the software, assessment of service options, and training on the software functions. Ongoing services include software updates, server management, and coordination of technical assistance. Consultation and resources will be available on-site, on-line, and/or by phone.

The CappsDATA software provides centralized support on a virtual private network accessible through the internet. This entails modularization of the functions into a 3-tier system which allows database support on a central server. Among other things, this eliminates the need for administration and service support to be at the same geographical point of service delivery. It also results in smaller and better modules for purposes of maintenance and distribution.

CappsDATA makes a virtual, web-based interdisciplinary team a reality. Internet access opens the door to a real-time exchange of information between service providers, family/guardians, social workers, schools, and other team members. Such access for external parties could serve important functions to government oversight services. It also enhances the use of the best external consultants in treatment.

Members will have access to an expanding base of experience which includes a shared database of client service programs and ideas. Members will also be part of a mission-directed organization committed to ongoing improvement of software functions and services. A substantial portion of the consortium resources will be dedicated to future research and development to meet members' needs.

Any organization which provides person-to-person services would be a candidate for consortium membership. Currently, the software is applied to a 24 hour residential service focusing on individualized program plans, consistent service delivery, rapid skill acquisition, and close monitoring of positive behavior support programs. The finger tip access to information, real-time data entry and automated reporting is useful in a variety of settings. Some other applications include early intervention programs, day programs, schools, and nursing homes.

System requirements include internet access (DSL or broadband connection required) and Windows compatible PC's (9X/2000/NT/XP) for use by program planners and direct care providers. Touch screen monitors for direct-care staff stations are efficient, but optional. Potential members will be committed to data-directed program planning and precise program delivery practices. CappsDATA is more than software: it is a refined process of providing person-to-person services which, when properly applied, leads to the empirical information needed for ever increasing improvement of services.

You are invited to participate in this new and innovative development in the delivery of human services. In keeping with our nonprofit tradition, we will be offering CappsDATA at the lowest cost possible. If you are interested in exploring consortium membership, please contact us.