FAQ of Technical Requirements for Using SERVICEPOINT

What do I need to run ServicePoint?
An Internet connection and an Internet browser. We strongly recommend a high-speed connection used in conjunction with Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 (available free at www.microsoft.com/ie.)

What hardware is required to use ServicePoint?
We recommend a 166+Mhz processor and at least a 56.6 Kbps Internet connection. A high-speed connection such as DSL, Cable, or T1 is strongly recommended. [Note: ServicePoint will operate on less powerful processors (e.g., 486 or 90 Mhz Pentium), and on lower-speed dial-up connections, but it will not operate as efficiently.]

What are the ideal system components for accessing ServicePoint?
Ideal components include a 350+Mhz processor, Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.5+, and an ISDN/DSL Internet connection.

I'm having trouble logging on and/or the pop-up windows aren't working properly. Can this be fixed?
Users running Internet Explorer 6 with the Windows XP operating system may experience difficulties with pop-up windows. To fix this problem, read the document, Settings for Internet Explorer 6 with Windows XP-Service Pack 2

My computer is running very slowly when I'm using ServicePoint. Can this be improved?
If your computer is getting bogged down, read the document, Work Station Best Practices for some tips to keep your machine running smoothly.

Do the ServicePoint licensing fees cover my Internet access costs?
No. You must contract with a local or national Internet service provider (ISP) for your Internet access.

Will anyone else have access to my data?
Service Point is designed to share client data with other agencies also serving the client, but only if the client approves it. Domestic violence programs, youth programs, programs covered under HIPAA, and programs covered under 42 CFR do not share data with other agencies. Programs can also decide not to share client data with other agencies. Wilder Research has access to the data as the system administrator for data accuracy and reporting purposes. No client identifying information is used in reporting. As the software developer, Bowman has access to the data for purposes of system maintenance.

Does ServicePoint provide data encryption?
Yes. ServicePoint™ utilizes commercial-grade, 128-bit encryption by Verisign, a recognized leader in Internet security products (http://www.verisign.com).

What standard reports does ServicePoint generate?
ServicePoint generates theHUD annual report, statistical reports, service transaction reports, referral reports, and met/unmet needs reports . Reports for MHFA-FHPAP are currently available and reports for the Minnesota Department of Human Services/Office of Economic Opportunity will be available shortly.

Can ServicePoint generate custom reports?
Agencies can contract with Wilder to have specialized reports and assessments developed to meet agency-specific needs. New reporting software is in development and will be available in late 2005.

Who should use ServicePoint in my agency?
The best person(s) to use ServicePoint at your agency is someone who is already comfortable using computers. It is also helpful if users have some understanding of the clients your agency serves, your agency's funding, and your reporting needs.

How many users should I have?
Each user license costs $300 per year. Agencies new to the system are charged a one-time customization and set-up fee of $175, and new users are required to attend a day-long training session which costs $50 per person. Possible data entry processes include having case managers enter data for their clients or having data entry specialists enter client forms (filled out by case managers) into the system. Users are also responsible for running reports for funders. In general, the more users your agency has, the better, but we recognize that license fees may limit the number of users you can afford to have.

  © 2006 Amherst H. Wilder Foundation | tel: 651.280.2780, 1-800-328-2972 | email: HMIS@wilder.org