Describes process by which a multiple-level collaborative database system was designed. Notes that by clearly elaborating the various design goals, it was possible to build a system through which ongoing program evaluation efforts could be easily managed without disrupting the service delivery process. (Author)

Discusses issues involved in the computerization of small, nonprofit organizations based on transcripts of a discussion with computer consultants. The use of consultants is discussed; organizational and personnel issues are addressed, including management involvement; and staff training methods are described. (LRW)

Computer programs have been developed to make Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Third Edition (DSM-III) diagnoses. Programs contain features that help to structure and shorten user interaction with the program, including screening questions and incorporation of DSM-III's decision trees for differential diagnosis. Discusses…

Survey of the extent of computerization in social service agencies in Santa Clara county, California revealed some problems that are commonly experienced by organizations undergoing the transition to a computerized information system, and some recommendations for workshops to meet their needs. (Author)

This brief report provides one teaching approach designed to help students and clinicians use the computing facilities available in their agencies to aid their clinical practice, and highlights issues central to this training. The teaching process involves using the computer as a tool, for identifying and operationalizing questions, analyzing data…

Notes that economic, demographic, and political factors pressure health care providers into improving discharge planning and long-term care services for clients. Examines the application of computer technology to case management and describes a computerized, hospital-based case management program for the elderly. (Author/NB)

Describes uses of computer simulations for the context of human service program evaluation. Presents simple mathematical models for most commonly used human service outcome evaluation designs (pretest-posttest randomized experiment, pretest-posttest nonequivalent groups design, and regression-discontinuity design). Translates models into single…

Presents the Israeli experience with merging different computerized files using a unique identifier. The advantages and disadvantages of this identifier are examined. Four types of problems are identified and some examples of use of an I.D. number as identifier are given. The desirability of merging files and confidentiality issues are also…

Examined whether computerized self-help stress coping program was effective in reducing stress among 30 adult male juvenile counselors. Compared to controls, subjects who participated in program showed decreases in personal strain and state anxiety and increases in personal resources. Concluded that program could provide relief for situational…

Discusses how human services agencies can use strategies and information technologies similar to those used in political campaigns to identify needs and attitudes for social services campaigns. Marketing for social services programs is described, and the use of computers for a political campaign and for a teenage pregnancy program is compared.…

Discusses computerizing the operations of small nonprofit organizations and describes the process of computerization and software development for community-based organizations that receive funds from the New York State Weatherization Assistance Program. Training programs are described, and the need to focus on the local agencies is stressed. (LRW)

Presents the second of a two-part state-of-the-art review concerning current trends in mental health computing, with special clinical applications in automated psychological testing, computer interviews, computerized diagnosis, clinical consultation, computer-aided instruction, computerized treatment intervention, and user acceptance. (Author/ABB)

Discussion of the use of computers by community organizers focuses on examples at St. Nicholas' Neighborhood Preservation Corporation in New York City. Highlights include automating communications; computerized newspapers and newsletters; databases that support planning and advocacy; and problems encountered, both within the organization and with…

Conducted survey in 32 psychiatric facilities to determine the types and sources of information used in care review in order to develop a meaningful minimum data set for quality assurance purposes. Found that the adequacy of medical record information for review and the feasibility of automating it depended on the nature of the review task.…

The computer has been used successfully in the education of persons with handicaps. Five subjects with developmental disabilities were selected for a six-month study and trained to use the microcomputer in performing basic data entry and word processing tasks. Four of the five subjects were placed in computer-related occupations following the…