Homeless
Management Information Systems (HMISs) have become standard fixtures
in a growing number of communities around the country. With HMISs,
jurisdictions can gather data on homelessness and service interventions
over time. These longitudinal data can then be used to directly
improve the effectiveness of the homeless shelter and service delivery
system. HMISs are critical tools for policymakers seeking information
about the extent and nature of homelessness as well as the effectiveness
of resources invested to address the problem. While the expansion
of HMISs presents an opportunity to affect homelessness at the local,
state, and national levels, communities should be aware that in
this rapidly changing technological environment, the quality of
potential HMIS solutions varies.
This
Consumer Guide is part of a national technical assistance (TA) initiative
helping communities plan for, select, and implement HMISs that meet
local service delivery and data collection objectives, as well as
national policy goals.
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