Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the plan for the next phase of feedback collected during user testing?
A: There will be another opportunity for counties to provide feedback prior to rollout. The next phase of feedback will occur during Production Simulation, where users will be able to validate system functionality, confirm updates made from EUST 3 findings, and submit any additional feedback that was not captured previously. Details on the Production Simulation schedule and feedback process will be shared in advance so counties can plan accordingly. Regarding the volume of EUST 3 feedback, the team reviewed and triaged all items using a consistent methodology to ensure each item received a determination. We understand that some users were not able to submit all their feedback during EUST 3, and Production Simulation is designed to provide that additional opportunity. Our goal is to ensure feedback is gathered comprehensively before rollout, support system readiness and a smooth transition for users.
Q: What is the plan to implement the feedback provided during Extended User Scenario Testing (EUST), considering the upcoming code freeze on July 30, 2026, and what will be the impact on training material, considering training materials are due in June 2026?
A: Feedback will be implemented based on priority and severity, guided by the determination type assigned to each item. Items identified as high‑priority or critical will be addressed before code freeze whenever possible.
Q: Where can we find release notes?
A: Release notes will be shared with county SPOCs and made available to all users on the CWDS website when they become available. Release schedules will also be communicated and shared when they become available.
Q: When is the Production Simulation Phase II User List due to the project with the revised user permissions for the bulk upload?
A: Information on this is currently being planned out by the Project, details on it will be released via a formal communication once it is available.
Q: Will counties be able to continue building forms and reports to be available on Go-Live after the code-freeze date?
A: The Project is working on developing this and will communicate the details within a formal communication once they are when available.
Q: Can counties gain access to JIRA to follow the status of feedback items?
A: This is a PMO tool used internally by the project. Any decision on allowing access or sharing information from Jira will be decided by Project Leadership.
Q: What prevented converted data from being provided on 5/26 for the Production Simulation (CARES 100) environment?
A: During the final technical setup and validation phases, issues were uncovered related to data conversion and user access.
Q: Once county data is loaded into Production Simulation, will there be an environment available with mock data that counties can use when sharing screens with each other without data showing?
A: The Project is finalizing the plan to make the Training environment available and will share more details in a formal communication once they become available.
Q: How many "essential items" will be resolved before the code freeze?
A: This is still being determined, and the Project is working on developing a release timeline. Once that timeline is available, the Project will share it through a formal communication.
Q: Will Post Go-Live Training environment be available in the Readiness Module?
A: The Training environment is a separate environment and will only contain mock data.