Using CAN Technology

What are key features of CAN?

  • The Client Registry
  • The Resource Directory
  • Easy to use Information and Referral Directories for the public and caseworkers - the application describes agencies, programs and services, referral information and referral data that can be forwarded to agencies or printed out for clients;
  • Searching Tools - simple and advanced key word searches for agency information that include distance to service provider
  • Data Entry - simple to use form
  • Security - entry and editing rights can be controlled. Encryption, firewalls individual and group setting options also exist
  • Calendar - community wide scheduling or specific to an agency
  • Message Forums - moderated or open forums
  • No software download required

We already have technology for case management, why do we need CAN?

CAN is much more than a technology; it is a shared platform for collaboration designed to help integrate services during times of disaster. This integration is enhanced by the technology to support the integration and sharing of information. CAN works to enhance your system of record by enabling collaboration on client and resource data.

How will CAN integrate with systems our community has already established?

CAN is meant to enhance, not replace, ongoing community preparedness, response and recovery planning and tools. The CAN staff will work to integrate CAN technology wherever possible. In addition, the CAN staff is available to work through business processes in order to establish requirements for current and future technologies.

Who is responsible for the maintenance?

CAN staff provide user support and monitor the application. The technology staff works directly with the vendor on maintenance of the application.

How will data enter the database?

Data will enter the database in three ways:
  1. Client data will be imported from existing databases if an agency uses case management software (please note that the agency will need to consolidate the data prior to sending it to the CAN technology group);
  2. In a catastrophic event, agencies will input data manually if they are not currently using a technology application; and/or
  3. Resource data will be imported from the local community;

What will be done with the data once a disaster is complete?

This will be up to the community. There are three basic options:
  1. The community can continue to use their existing instance of CAN by taking over the contract for a minimal yearly fee;
  2. The data could be migrated to a community-selected application; and/or
  3. The data could be provided to the community on a disk or via hard copy reports

What type of training is provided?

There are several training options that are available for all participants: on-demand video training, Web-based training and community-based training. Please refer to the complete list of training resources .

Participating agencies should ensure that users have a minimum level of exposure to the Internet and are able to navigate through a Web site using basic keyboard functions.

Is user support available for local communities?

User support is available in a variety of ways. Users can email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . In addition, user guides and other materials are available on each community's CAN site. User support for issues regarding the Internet is provided by the host agency.

What technology requirements are there for me to run the CAN application on my computer?

PC Computer Pentium III 350Mhz or higher
800x600 screen resolution, 1024x768 preferred
Macintosh Computer Any model able to support OS 8.1 or higher
OS 9.0 or higher or OS X, preferred

Internet Connection

 

Public Access
Staff Access
Dial up, wireless, or broadband connectivity
Dial up, wireless, or broadband as required
Internet Service Provider
Public Access
Staff Access
Any provider meeting standard protocols
Any national or regional provider with proven reliability. The AOL network is not supported for staff access.

Browser Software
Public Access
Staff Access
Any standard browser supporting Cascading Style Sheets
Any browser supporting Cascading Style Sheets and approved by VisionLink including Internet Explorer and Netscape versions 5 and higher.
Other Software No other software is required to access a CAN system. Office suite software is recommended for staff users who may be working with exported data for mail merging, reporting and other similar activities, or who will be creating content for publishing online.

 

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