In the first data collection period, survey respondents reported moderately high levels of satisfaction. The survey data showed that 67% of respondents reported being “Somewhat satisfied” or “Very satisfied;” compared to 18% of respondents who reported being “Somewhat dissatisfied” or “Very dissatisfied.” An additional 15% of respondents reported feeling “Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied.”

Despite moderately high levels of satisfaction during the first data collection, caseworkers reported various barriers to use. During the second data collection, satisfaction was again high and some barriers to use remained including lack of comprehensive policies on acceptable use and compensation, and the technical challenges previously described (i.e., connectivity, boot up time, and privacy). Some caseworkers expressed their frustration about inconsistent policies, and several stated they may stop using the laptop altogether if policy issues are not addressed. Caseworkers added that defining what is considered acceptable use and specifically informing supervisors on what should be expected from caseworkers is an important step to using laptops.

During the second data collection period, CPS caseworkers reported several incentives associated with using the laptops, including a desire to increase self satisfaction and a need to reduce work-related stress. Despite not being compensated, many caseworkers reported self satisfaction and the desire to keep up on their progress notes as the main drivers behind using the laptops from home. Furthermore, caseworkers reported high satisfaction with the ability to shift work tasks around during the day. One caseworker reiterated that since having a laptop, they are able to go home at a reasonable time, care for their family, and catch-up on work as needed. A number of the interviewed caseworkers reported not wanting a laptop initially, however, after participating in the project, they are happy to have experimented with mobile technology. Almost all caseworkers said they would recommend using a laptop to colleagues, however, a few would caution their fellow colleagues about a potential work-life balance tension.