Case Studies

Online Resource Directory Increases Process Efficiency and Drives Down Costs

Project at a Glance
RDA created a SharePoint Web-based solution for HSC Foundation's Directory of Service Providers, resulting in expanded distribution at reduced cost with up-to-the-minute data about providers for the public.

About Our Client

The HSC Foundation focuses on healthcare programs that are innovative in the financing, organization and delivery of medical and social services to children with special needs. Historically, the Foundation has served as the parent organization for two non-profit entities: The HSC Pediatric Center, and Health Services for Children with Special Needs, Inc. In partnership with these entities and other community agencies and organizations, the Foundation is dedicated to maintaining the highest standard of service while striving to improve conditions for children with special needs. The HSC Foundation serves children and families affected by the full spectrum of special needs, including physical, mental, behavioral and developmental.

Background

As part of its focus on healthcare and social services, HSC maintains, updates, and publishes a constantly growing Community Services Resource Directory of 2,000+ community service providers to the public. The directory is prepared to help families with children with special needs, healthcare and social services providers, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and advocates find listings for community services throughout the District of Columbia and some national organizations with headquarters or offices located in D.C.

Previously, this directory was managed using Word documents, which involved a labor-intensive process to update the database and publish each version. Data accuracy was also a concern, as there was no established, consistent workflow and approval process associated with this method. HSC sought a more efficient and cost-effective means to manage and distribute their directory using technology.

Solution Detail

RDA created a Microsoft SharePoint-based extranet application that enables HSC to host a live version of the directory on the Internet with up-to-the-minute changes. Users can search, browse, or filter the available data.

RDA created two distinct environments: one for external users to view the directory, and one for internal users to manage and edit the content. The security model requires authentication for internal users while allowing external view access to anonymous users.

In addition to the flexibility associated with publishing the directory online, this solution offers a custom workflow component that provides HSC with a streamlined, automated process for updating content and viewing and approving changes to the directory. Based on login authentication, internal users are categorized as content editors or content approvers, with appropriate editorial rights granted based on their security level. The system guides editors and reviewers through the content update and approval process, which helps to ensure data accuracy.

RDA also customized the application to allow HSC to create a CD of the entire directory at the click of a button. These CDs may be distributed to users who do not have Internet access.

Benefits

The new application offers HSC many benefits:

• Reduced distribution costs
• Enhanced editorial flexibility
• Expanded reach
• Simplified update process
• Automated workflow
• Push-button CD creation capability
• Immediate update availability to users

Technically Speaking

The application was written in ASP.NET and the site is hosted in a SharePoint environment. The solution also incorporated XML, XSLT, JavaScript, and SQL Server 2000 technologies.