CWS-CARES Public Library
Insights from CalSAWS and CWS-CARES Testing
We're pleased to share some key takeaways and progress from our recent EUST 2 efforts involving the CalSAWS and CWS-CARES interface, called Foster Care Eligibility Determination (FCED).
It's encouraging to report that many testers successfully replicated the core functionality of the interface, establishing case links and exchanging data and documents effectively. A significant achievement was the observed real-time data exchange between the systems. This demonstrates the responsiveness and efficiency of the current integration. We truly value all feedback received, as it indicates that we are providing a functioning product for our users to interact with and evaluate. We acknowledge that some users experienced initial login difficulties during the first few days of testing. We have addressed these issues and are continuously working to ensure a seamless user experience.
Testers gave important feedback about how the CalSAWS test scripts and instructions needed to better match those for CWS-CARES EUST 2. To address this, we are committed to closer collaboration with CalSAWS during scenario preparation and will conduct thorough reviews of CalSAWS steps to ensure better synchronization.
In response to testers' requests for increased visibility into CalSAWS processes and steps, we are exploring opportunities for CWS-CARES testers to attend CalSAWS kickoffs and training sessions, and vice versa. We are also considering integrating relevant CalSAWS scenario materials into our CWS-CARES materials to provide a more comprehensive view.
Based on the feedback received in EUST 2, a new requirement was identified for the Eligibility Resource area. We learned that clearer error messaging is needed to notify users of any data fields that are incomplete before submitting to CalSAWS.
Eligibility testers said they need to better understand what happens in CalSAWS after data is sent from CWS-CARES. Additionally, testers expressed challenges in understanding the technical error messages received. To improve user experience, we're making it easier to see what's happening behind the scenes and understand error messages. We are actively implementing this enhancement prior to V1 Go-Live.
This collaborative testing effort with CalSAWS has provided valuable insights, and we are committed to acting on this feedback to further refine and strengthen the integration between our systems. We appreciate the valuable feedback from our EUST 2 testers and remain dedicated to continuous improvement.
Interested in learning more about FCED?
On June 3, 2025 the project hosted an Introduction to FCED for Counties webinar. The session provided county staff with a foundational overview of FCED in CWS-CARES, covering the Who, What, When, Why, and How of the foster care eligibility determination process. The webinar also included a detailed demonstration of FCED functionality and live Q&A. For those who couldn’t attend, a recording of the session is available on the CWDS website.
Stay tuned for more learning opportunities as we continue to roll out FCED support. Thank you to everyone who attended the session!