What to Look for in Your Social Services Software

0
913

Social Services Software

The novel coronavirus may be less threatening nowadays, but the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic can still be felt. Unemployment rates are rising, as is the cost of living. Many people suffer from depression, isolation, abuse, or addiction issues due to socioeconomic challenges or the loss of loved ones. 

Here, social workers are wearing multiple hats, helping people who need social services while also coordinating with doctors, nurses, therapists, and different types of healthcare organizations. 

As a person working in the social services sector, you can use social services software to make your life easier. Here is what to look for when shopping for the best software for social services management and delivery:

1. Personalized Care

Only use software that helps you provide personalized care to your clients. As you know, every client is different, with unique experiences and needs. Your software can help you track information related to a client’s referrals, calls, services, and case plans. With a macro view of a client’s profile, you can deliver personalized care more effectively. 

2. Real-time Data Capture 

Social workers can spend a significant amount of time writing case notes and building case plans. Software that captures real-time data for admissions, notes, and delivery can help make this task less time-consuming, while also improving accuracy. 

3. Intuitive Interface

Your social services software should have an intuitive interface — every button, feature, and text should be in the right space. Despite being easy to learn, the software should also allow you to complete complex tasks. 

4. Excellent Support

As human beings, we aren’t perfect. Even years after learning new software, we can make mistakes or have trouble understanding some functions. That’s why your software should have free support via phone, email, or app. 

Please also look for software that offers free living training to help you get up and running. Refreshers and webinars can help clear misunderstandings or sharpen your skills. 

5. Cloud-Based Access

As a social worker, you may often be on the go. So, you may need software with cloud-based access that lets you access essential data remotely from anywhere with an Internet connection. 

6. Easily Customizable

Your software should be easily configurable. Within minutes, you should be able to customize your drop-down lists, checkboxes, tabs, and fields. 

7. Secure Data Management

As a social worker, you need secure software that shields the security and privacy of your clients. Look for PIPEDA and HIPAA compliant software with cutting-edge data security features to protect the people you serve.  

8. Case Management  

Your social services software should help you manage your cases, so you have more time to deliver the best client care. Your case management tools should fit your program and data so you can streamline service delivery easily. 

9. Volunteer Management

Administrators in the social sector often rely on volunteers. Managing them effectively can lead to successful outcomes. That’s why social services software that helps you define and track action plans for your volunteers is so essential. 

When shopping for social services software, look for these nine important features. Only pick software that’s powerful, effective, customizable, robust, and easy to use for the best results.