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Human Resources Department

Hamilton County 2010 Employees of the Year
Innovation Award

Tom Sanders with Job and Family Services

Tom Sanders, Information Systems Programmer for Job and Family Services (JFS), is well-deserving of the County�s Innovation Award. Tom has worked on many important projects that have moved JFS forward; however, in 2009, Tom made a significant and cost-saving contribution to the agency by designing and implementing a consumer log-in system called the Appointment Management System (AMS).  While 44 other counties in Ohio and 6 other states were using a similar system through a third party vendor, JFS could not afford the $550,000 to $650,000 start up cost or the $200,000 yearly maintenance fees. So, that�s when Tom began working with the Family & Adult Assistance staff to design an in-house system specific to the agency�s needs. 

In the Fall of 2009, JFS began to pilot the AMS. Using a weekly download of scheduled interviews from the State, reception staff could log consumers in for their appointment and direct them to color-coded lobbies.  Eligibility staff could access a �bucket� and accept the next waiting consumer. This new system ensures consumers are seen in the order they arrive. The system is now working so well, the database has been expanded to include scheduling telephone and intake interviews. Tom designed the system to include many additional features to help manage workloads.  

The AMS will save JFS and the County an estimated $1,000,000+ over a five year period. The system improves customer service by ensuring JFS consumers are seen in the order they arrive, they are seen quickly and not spending much time waiting. The system gives management staff the tools to increase productivity � timeliness rates will improve with application processing during State audits. Communication has improved drastically, and the staff loves this new system!

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