Frequently Asked Questions
Interfaces
Q: What systems currently supported by CWDS will have functionality incorporated into CWS-CARES?
A: CWS-CARES is being developed as a end to end child welfare system that is intended to replace CWS/CMS. The functionality in CWS-CARES-Live will be redeveloped in CWS-CARES (as CWS-CARES-Live was created in a different platform/software). CWS-CARES RFA functionality will be merged into CWS-CARES as it was also developed in the same platform, but for now it is its own\separate system. All of these systems are in production, with scheduled updates/releases.
Q: Will CWS-CARES interface with Binti?
A: Binti is not an approved interface for CWS-CARES V1. CWS-CARES V1 will include complete RFA functionality.
Q: What is the Opeeka Interface?
A: The Opeeka Interface will have the Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths Assessment (CANS) assessment highlighted as well as multiple other assessments available (separate from Structured Decision Making (SDM) which have the more change based assessments). This will mirror how the CANS assessment is currently done, pulling it into CWS-CARES using the Opeeka Interface (referring to the system look and feel).
Q: Since Structured Decision Making (SDM), CARES-Live, and Binti data is slated for summer 2026, will synthetic data for these systems be in the environment until then?
A: Counties are encouraged to practice using synthetic data — for example, CWS/CMS cases and referrals to initiate interfaces. Historical data within those interfaces will not be available.
Q: Are name and email alias changes done through Okta? Has this been tested against county AD Azure for any SSO issues?
A: Name changes and email updates can be done in Okta. This has not been test against county AD Azure, as there is no connection to county AD Azure from CWS-CARES.
Q: Will CWS-CARES need networking hardware or will it be internet based?
A: CWS-CARES is internet based and we will provide a Technical Resource document that details all of the hardware and software requirements.
Q: Can the Project provide a complete list of the CWS-CARES Version 1 interfaces that will be accessible in Production Simulation, and will existing data from those systems be available?
A: The expected interface list planned for Production Simulation includes: Case Management Assessment (CMA), Structured Decision Making (SDM), Foster Care Eligibility Determination (FCED), Facility Management System (LIS/FAS data), Juvenile Network (JNET), County Expense Claim Reporting Information System (CECRIS), the data extract from the California Department of Education (CDE), and Regional Center Services for the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). Data availability and timing for some of these interfaces are still being finalized.
Q: Will the Resource Family Approval (RFA) portal have interfacing capabilities and the ability to send electronic communication to families?
A: Yes, the portal does have the ability to electronically communicate with families.
Q: Will the Child Welfare Services-California Automated Response and Engagement System Version 1 (CWS-CARES V1) include a public interface where Resource Family Approval (RFA) applicant families can apply and upload supporting documents and information?
A: Yes. In CWS-CARES Version 1, the Resource Family Approval (RFA) program worker, Applicant, and Resource Family Homes will be able to upload completed forms and documents to CWS-CARES V1.
Q: Will Tableau only be available to pull for our County by specific staff who have access to Tableau?
A: This is still being developed. Users will get access to reports based on permissions as Tableau report viewers. How report developers will get access to Tableau is being reviewed.