The data extracted from the central CONNECTIONS database included information on cases (investigation begin date and end date), progress notes (related event date, the date a note is entered into the system, and the type of note), and safety assessments (safety assessment submission date). Safety assessment submission date is used because that is the time frame within which the CPS worker has control over entering safety assessment information. Safety assessment approvals require supervisor action and other factors outside the caseworker’s control.

The surveys gathered participants’ perceptions of timeliness, productivity, and changes in work activities. Our findings on timeliness and work flow impacts include analysis of these data.

Also note that data and findings are based on the data collected from the testers in each of the field offices, not the entire field office.