Child welfare system modernization
Tackling resistance to change
Child welfare agencies stand at the threshold of a new era of service delivery as they embark on Comprehensive Child Welfare Information System (CCWIS) transformation efforts. While resistance to change is a real and common obstacle, agencies can fundamentally enhance how support is provided to children and families through carefully planned organizational change management efforts and by prioritizing modernization as an opportunity to undertake needed programmatic changes that center families at their core.
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Is resistance to change impeding child welfare system modernization?
Download PDFHarness a demonstrated track record of navigating change
Child welfare agencies have continually successfully navigated significant challenges such as major legislative reforms, the global COVID-19 pandemic, and initiatives to correct historical injustices. These challenges have spurred innovative practices, including the adoption of virtual services like client visits and court hearings, which have the potential for lasting improvements in child welfare operations. The shift in focus towards preventive measures and the importance of kinship care, as highlighted by the Family First Prevention Services Act, underscore a proactive approach in supporting families before crises occur, marking a significant shift in child welfare strategies.
Additionally, the commitment to addressing racial disparities within the child welfare system has led to targeted efforts to improve outcomes for children and families of color. In parallel, child welfare agencies are creatively overcoming resource limitations and staffing challenges by implementing strategies aimed at improving working conditions to maintain service delivery and boost staff morale. These examples underscore the ongoing evolution of child welfare practices, emphasizing a more inclusive, effective, and supportive approach to serving children and families.
Implement organizational change management (OCM)
A well-planned OCM strategy is essential for a successful CCWIS transformation, enhancing user acceptance and ensuring that technology serves the real needs of children, families, and communities.
OCM efforts begin with an assessment of the agency's ability and capacity for change, as well as an understanding of the current state before any new technology is built. This must be accompanied by a thorough understanding of all transformations across the organization which may include staff pain points, areas of resistance, and the need for additional support.
Involving change agents from across the organization can improve governance and user acceptance and envision a future state that aligns with the evolving needs of child welfare agencies and the children and families they serve. Thoughtful and timely OCM efforts can help child welfare leaders to mobilize, strengthen, and tap into these change agents at all stages of CCWIS development, from planning to go-live and beyond.
Embrace modernization as an opportunity to implement essential programmatic changes
Transitioning to CCWIS offers child welfare agencies a significant opportunity to remodel their approach, centering services around the needs of children, families, and communities. By prioritizing programmatic transformations before technology, agencies can set a solid foundation for meaningful improvements that truly benefit children and families.
How KPMG can help
KPMG supports child welfare agencies in navigating these transformative changes, offering strategic insights, innovative solutions, and extensive experience in areas such as business process redesign, CCWIS planning, OCM, cost allocation planning, program implementation, data quality and governance, and more.
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