In the first data collection period, survey respondents reported a high overall level of satisfaction. The survey data showed that 81% of respondents reported being “Somewhat satisfied” or “Very satisfied,” compared to 11% being “Somewhat dissatisfied” or “Very dissatisfied.” Additionally, 7% responded that they were “Neither dissatisfied/satisfied.” While no surveys were administered in the second data collection period, caseworkers in the videoconference reported similar and consistent sentiments regarding their overall satisfaction with the laptops.

Despite the overall high levels of satisfaction reported in both data collection periods, caseworkers reported issues during the second data collection period that they hoped would have been addressed by then. For example, in the first data collection period, participants indicated technical difficulties, inconsistent access to CONNECTIONS, lengthy boot up times, and issues related to login passwords as problematic. Nearly one year after deploying and using the laptops, similar observations were reported by caseworkers in the videoconference, where technical issues identical to those previously mentioned were cited. Additionally, frustration regarding the lack of comprehensive or consistent policies on acceptable use and compensation were identified. In the second data collection period, caseworkers indicated that acceptable use of the laptops is primarily dictated by individual supervisor preference. Some supervisors allowed caseworkers to work outside of the office, others preferred them working from the office. Caseworkers who were allowed to work from the field reported high levels of satisfaction. They attributed this satisfaction to their ability to access case information regardless of where they were. Other caseworkers indicated that their stress level would be reduced if they were allowed to work more from the field.

There was no policy change regarding the use of laptops from home for CPS work between the initial and extended assessments. Caseworkers could work from home if they obtained prior approval; noting that they are allowed up to four hours a week of overtime (issued as compensatory time). Other issues such as the lack of dedicated work areas in court, inability to print from the field, and inconsistent Wi-Fi connections were additional barriers cited.