What is Outreach Grid?
Outreach Grid functions as a comprehensive coordinated entry data system designed specifically for homelessness service agencies. The platform enables collaboration across multiple organizations by providing integrated tools that capture information from initial client contact through to housing placement. Agencies can work together using a unified system that collects data in accordance with HUD's HMIS Data Standards while offering additional functionality beyond traditional reporting requirements.
The platform includes specialized modules for outreach work, case management, shelter bed reservations, and housing navigation. These tools allow frontline staff to locate vulnerable individuals, create tailored service plans, manage shelter inventory in real-time, and identify housing resources. Outreach Grid emphasizes user-friendly design with features like digitized forms, mobile applications, real-time communications, and automated matching systems to streamline workflows and improve service coordination.
Features
- Coordinated Entry System: Enables multiple agencies to collaborate on homelessness data through one unified platform
- Real-Time Shelter Bed Reservations: Provides live bed inventory tracking and automated client matching for shelter placements
- Mobile Field Applications: iOS apps for outreach workers and case managers to access tools while in the field
- HMIS Data Integration: Collects data according to HUD standards and integrates with existing HMIS data warehouses
- Comprehensive Reporting: Generates custom reports and exports data for analysis and compliance requirements
Use Cases
- Coordinating homelessness services across multiple agencies in a community
- Managing real-time shelter bed availability and client placements
- Conducting Point-in-Time counts with volunteer management and live data tracking
- Streamlining case management workflows for homeless service providers
- Identifying housing resources and overcoming barriers to client housing
FAQs
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How does Outreach Grid differ from traditional HMIS systems?
Outreach Grid collects data according to HUD's HMIS Data Standards but offers additional functionality beyond just generating reports. It provides real-time collaboration tools, mobile applications for field work, automated bed-client matching, and integrated workflows that traditional HMIS platforms typically lack. -
Can Outreach Grid integrate with existing data systems?
Yes, Outreach Grid builds custom data bridges to integrate with HMIS Data Warehouses and can import data from third-party sources including Excel spreadsheets and paper forms, eliminating the need for double data entry. -
What security measures does Outreach Grid implement?
Outreach Grid employs comprehensive security measures including encryption of data at rest and in transit, SSL encryption, two-factor authentication, HIPAA compliance options, user activity audits, and regular security updates following the Twelve-Factor App Methodology. -
How does the shelter bed reservation system work?
The system provides real-time tracking of shelter bed inventory, automated matching of clients to available beds based on their needs, and streamlined bed reservation requests that can be managed through the platform's integrated tools. -
What support is included with different pricing packages?
All packages include chat and email support during business hours, training documentation, and access to all platform features. Higher-tier packages add phone support, custom reports, dedicated project management, priority support, and consulting services depending on the selected plan.
