HMIS 101: How can I make HMIS work for me

ICA and the AKHMIS Advisory Board are committed to maximizing the usefulness of HMIS to all stakeholders. For example, if custom data collection and reporting is needed to meet a new grant requirement, we can set that up in HMIS!

There are several resources and processes in place to help make your idea happen:

• System Administrators.  System Administrators may assist stakeholders within a Continuum of Care (CoC) through channels like the AKHMIS Advisory Board and the AKHMIS Help Desk. The System Administrators have a detailed understanding of the structure of the CoC. Through their participation in the AKHMIS Advisory Board, user groups, in-person organization visits, and other work, System Administrators develop relationships with stakeholders and deep insight of the homeless service programs in the State of Alaska. AKHMIS system administrators understand the reporting needs of funding sources so that they can offer accurate and timely support for organizations receiving a particular type of funding and for the federal or state office that issues that funding.
• Help desk. The AKHMIS Help Desk (mailto:akhmis@icalliances.org) is generally the best starting point for any question or request related to HMIS. The Help Desk team can point you to existing resources, put you in touch with the appropriate staff person, or explain next steps. Help Desk requests are routed to the appropriate team member who will usually respond within two Help Desk hours.
• Custom report requests. If existing reports do not provide the data you need in the format you need it, you can submit a custom report request (https://icalliances.org/alaska-custom-reports-request). Be prepared to provide a mockup of what you need – if you get stuck with that, contact the Help Desk!
• Project process. A Create New AKHMIS Provider Request must be submitted for each project needed by the organization. Depending on the size and complexity of your request, ICA will assist in creating the framework for a project that will meet your organizational needs.

What is the catch? While there is no additional cost to you for completing these sorts of requests, your patience is required! Depending on the size and complexity of your request it can take about 2-10 weeks to complete the work. If our timelines do not align, we can always explore potential compromises. If you have an HMIS need, please let us know!