CWS-CARES Public Library

Definitions

The CWS-CARES Data Dictionary and Entity Relationship Diagrams (ERDs) are designed to assist counties and other data partners in understanding the structure, purpose, and use of data within CWS-CARES.  

The Data Dictionary is a reference guide that explains the structure and meaning of data in CWS-CARES system, such as database fields, types, and relationships, ensuring consistency and clarity.

Entity Relationship Diagrams (ERDs) are a visual representation of how different data elements are related within CWS-CARES system, helping to design and understand databases.

Evolution of the Data Dictionary

The initial version of the CWS-CARES Data Dictionary and legacy mapping of CWS/CMS fields is now available. This version reflects the current state of CWS-CARES. As CWS-CARES continues to evolve and improve over the coming months, this initial version will be updated to incorporate new changes. 

The CWS-CARES Project conducted a walkthrough of the initial version of the CWS-CARES Data Dictionary and related materials with county representatives and data partners in March 2025. A recording of the walkthrough is available in the CWS-CARES Data Dictionary Microsoft Teams channel.

Publication and Ongoing Updates

A dedicated Microsoft Teams channel has been created for all CWS-CARES Data Dictionary-related materials. Contact CWDSDataManagement@osi.ca.gov to request access to the Microsoft Teams Channel called CWS-CARES Data Dictionary. Questions can be submitted directly to the CWS-CARES Technology team's inbox: CWDSDataManagement@osi.ca.gov. 

Future iterations of the Data Dictionary will be published quarterly to provide greater clarity, address gaps, and potentially modify or remove certain fields or rename them. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work diligently to ensure the successful implementation and ongoing maintenance of the CWS-CARES Data Dictionary.

Originally published in the CWS-CARES Explorer.