The
HOMES-Muttart Research Project
and the HOMES Database
Project Description...
The HOMES-Muttart Research Project (HMRP) is a research project that uses the
Hull Outcomes Monitoring and Evaluation System (HOMES)
as a tool to assist agencies to become outcome oriented. The HOMES is a program
evaluation software package used by human service agencies to track a wide
variety of evaluation information. Agencies can monitor Program Logic Models,
community surveys, pre and post client information related to specific service
goals, practitioner strategies, and outcome standard statements. Data
collection procedures are integrated into common case and program management
procedures. The project is intended to help train and provide the tools to
ensure agencies increase their efficiency and become outcome oriented. The
project is intended to increase caregiver and practitioner accountability to
their clientele by providing timely and useful program and client-based outcome
information.
A critical feature of the HOMES is its ability to monitor evidence or
indicators of success toward achieving outcome standard statements. Such
information from multiple agencies is stored within one common database to
allow multi-agency data analyses and best practice reporting.
Integrated Case and Outcome Monitoring...
The HOMES database integrates data collection procedures into common program
and case management procedures, including the use of program logic concepts,
standardized testing, research design, and accreditation concepts. Additional
case management features such as client call tracking, group attendance,
program availability tracking, and wait list monitoring are also embedded into
the system. A program logic and survey writer allows agencies to develop opened
questionnaires useful for program and outcome monitoring on individual, group,
or community levels. A human resources section allows for monitoring of
personnel, volunteer, and donor information, including timesheets.
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Minimum Requirements for Using HOMES Database Application...
Computer
Pentium 1 (66Mhz)
10 MG of free disk space
Window 95 or above
Network component - "Client for Microsoft Networks"
Internet
Internet connection 28.8kbs or above
Internet Explorer version 5.5 or above (5.5 and above include 128bit encryption
for maximum security)
Recommended Requirements for HOMES Database Application
Computer
Pentium 3 800Mhz
10 MG of free disk space
Windows 98, Windows 2000, or Windows XP
Network component - "Client for Microsoft Networks"
Apple Computers may have difficulties accessing HOMES
Internet
Broadband internet connection - 1Mbs
Internet Explorer version 6 (Microsoft does not support version 5.5 any longer)
Supported Help for HOMES Database Application
Windows 98, Windows ME, Windows 2000, Windows XP
Internet Explorer version 5.5 and 6
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Benefits of
Services
Automated Outcome Monitoring. A critical feature of the CORI system is its
ability to monitor pre to post outcome evidence toward achieving standard
outcome statements. Reports to monitor client and program achievement are
automated and are produced using “live” ongoing updated information.
Multiple agency data is stored within one common database to allow multi-agency
data analyses and best practice reporting. Information related to outcome
monitoring can be printed from HOMES in a number of formats, including Program
Logic Models.
Standardization. Use of the HOMES helps create common outcome and case
management procedures using the same protocols across a variety of agencies.
The measures within HOMES have also been standardized to ensure reliability and
validity of outcome measurement. These protocols take into consideration
outcome measurement, case management and accreditation standards. Once HOMES is
learned and used regularly by program personnel, one system is used for
monitoring in these 3 areas. This reduces duplication of work and creates
considerable timesaving for practitioners.
Internet Resources. HOMES is an Internet-Based system. Use of HOMES moves
agencies to become not only outcome-oriented, but also more oriented toward the
current internet culture. Agencies using HOMES become computerized, connected
to the Internet, and more knowledgeable about the resources that the Internet
can offer. CORI will assist in placing outcome and case management resources
and training materials on its website to offer quick access to project
resources.
Outcome and Hands-On Training. The project offers outcome training in a
specific outcome model and generic outcome concepts that can be applied to a
program logic approach. This includes hands-on training for use of the HOMES
software, as well as, individualized organizational consultation to ensure its
effective implementation.
Key model features are:
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Integration of case, community management and outcome data collection
procedures into one set of operational procedures;
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Program Logic Model and Accompanying Survey Writer and Analysis tools;
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Pre to post data collection using these case and community reports;
-
Relevant assessment using Client Needs / Reasons for Service, Client Goals,
Standardized Testing, and qualitative information;
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Capacity for cross agency referral and information sharing (when consent is
provided)
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Capacity for agencies and funders to electronically report outcome information
in an automated fashion (only with consent and without compromising program
confidentiality);
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Use of a bottom up approach: Client and Community Information drives
association of Outcome Standards to Client Measures;
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Use of a Quality Improvement Approach: Outcomes are considered Educational, not
used just for accountability.
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