Challenge: LIHEAP manages block grant budgets for Community Action Agencies in the State of Washington to provide assistance to pay heating and energy to low income persons who meet eligibility requirements. LIHEAP sought to provide more service to the Community Action Agency by delivering a well-designed website that allows data input and reporting. LIHEAP wanted to have the ability to change the content of the website and manage user access. In addition, LIHEAP wanted to explore the feasibility of web services and create a common data dictionary for off-line agencies reporting LIHEAP information.

Results/ Metrics: BIS developed a new password-protected website in .NET for agency input and reporting. BIS also conducted an analysis of all off line agency applications and data schemas. BIS created a unified data dictionary for use by LIHEAP on which to base a set of proposed web services. The end product was designed to leverage changes in the LIHEAP database to be a model for standardizing data collection across CTED and other state agencies, thus facilitating Results Oriented Management & Accountability (ROMA) reporting for Community Action Agencies.