Foster Parent Application Portal Update
June Sprint Testing
Last month, we introduced UAT (User Acceptance Testing) as testing performed by a user to verify/accept a software system before it goes live. Since then, the Foster Parent Application Portal (FPAP) core team has learned a lot and is continually adjusting to improve the development and implementation of this project.
One of the things we learned last month, is that UAT does not accurately describe this phase of testing for our particular project. Therefore, we will refer to our current testing of the FPAP as Sprint Testing. As a reminder, this round of Sprint Testing focused on the General Licensing portal for individuals and families interested in becoming fully licensed foster parents. (Note: Future testing will address the specific needs of Relatives and Suitable Others, CPA’s, and Group Homes.
The FPAP core team provided testers with instructions to work through sample scenarios as an external applicant, as well as a DCYF staff member. Structured mass testing occurred on 6/10 and individuals continued testing on their own through 6/16. The FPAP core team collected feedback from testers and is in the process of compiling the information.
A big thank you to everyone below, who participated in our first round of Sprint Testing and helped making it a success!
|
Andrea Black
|
Dorothy Peterson
|
Nancy Sundin
|
Amber Salzer
|
|
Kevin Ainslie
|
Laree Cardwell
|
Ryan Greenhalgh
|
Xuan Chung
|
|
Jolene Bradley
|
Ruben Reeves
|
David Yantis
|
Maria Tover
|
|
Jeanine Tacchini
|
Becky Taylor
|
Nick Harris
|
Vicki Broadbent
|
|
Initial Sprint Testing Feedback:
FPAP Strengths:
- Testers utilized the portal’s chat feature for functionality issues. They reported quick response times (2-7 seconds) and effective support.
- The electronic signature feature was mentioned by multiple testers as a huge benefit to the applicant and DCYF staff.
- The portal sends automated emails to references (including adult child references) when an email address is provided. The individual can then complete their requirements through the portal.
- Links to outside contracts or processes such as background checks, orientation and training, are incorporated in the portal for the applicant’s convenience.
Areas for Improvement:
- Applicants were asked to answer some questions in multiple areas, such as: Primary Language, Race/Ethnicity, Reference information, and Children in the Home.
- Testers were unable to edit or access certain forms the applicant completed, as a DCYF staff member
Here are some general comments we heard from testers:
- “Overall, I would say that my actual experience in working through the application process was good and it went smoothly.”
- “I know I didn’t do the worker portion right, but I did learn how to manually input an app in the process.”
- “The family map was the only one that wasn't working…but then it worked…took a very long time to load.”
- “I ended up doing my own as a worker and the other one I was assigned…and it worked out well!”
- “If the process goes smoothly when the applicant has to access another web site like the Alliance or the BCCU. I think this is going to be an awesome way for people to apply.”
______________________________________________________________________________
Read more about the foster care portal and what it will do on the DCYF webpage at: https://www.dcyf.wa.gov/practice/practice-improvement/foster-parent-application-portal
There is also a place on our website to subscribe to automated portal updates to ensure you always have the most updated info. Look for the box labeled ‘Stay Informed’ on the right-hand side and click SIGN UP FOR FOSTER CARE PORTAL UPDATES
Don’t forget! The FPAP core team is available to answer any of your questions, comments, and inquiries at: dcyf.fostercareportal@dcyf.wa.gov
|
