Compiling the APR Using Packaged Data Management Software: Blumen SAEOPP Priority 1 Training PY 2010

Presenter Elizabeth C. Retamozo, Executive Director NOSOTROS Education Center Phone:

3 Learning Objectives Review the pros and cons of using packaged data management software programs Receive an overview of the features of the Blumen database program Learn the initial steps to enter participant data into the Blumen database to compile APR Section III for SSS Projects; Section II for McNair Projects; and Section II, III, & IV for EOC/TS

4 Pros of Packaged Database Program Specifically developed & designed for TRIO Programs and APRs Does not require experience or knowledge of database programming Investment (time & money) required tends to be relatively cheap as the cost of development can be spread over a large number of users

5 Pros of Packaged Database Program “Powerful” as the revenues from a large numbers of users means that a lot of resources can be applied to its development Experienced technical support to trouble shoot and customize reports/features Vendor monitors ED & revises the APR

6 Cons of Packaged Database Program Can be complex and include features that you might never use Tends to be a compromise because it is designed for many different types of users May take a long time to learn properly  Outsourcing leaves you at the “mercy” of the vendor

7 Blumen Database Features AUTOMATED Self-built drop-down lists Incremental search & auto-fill fields Graphical navigation bar to view data Backup wizard reminds you to make backups “Auto Save” saves all data instantaneously

8 Blumen Database Features POWERFUL Creates Customized Activities and Services Screen-level password security Automated attendance log for activities or contacts Time clock feature Time & Effort Staff Reports

9 Blumen Database Features FLEXIBILITY Over 125 statistical and management reports Creates and saves your own customized reports Saves reports in HTML format to to others Searches data by any criteria Views and prints Monthly/Quarterly/Annual reports

10 Blumen Database Features NETWORK READY Real-time multi-user updating saves time User-specific preferences “Smart” conflict resolution when the same data is being changed by more than one user at the same time Remote access for read-only viewing OR data entry for consolidation later at main office

11 Blumen Database Features SUPPORT One Year FREE Technical Support Unlimited Calls to Technical Support Unlimited support Updates/Upgrades at discounted prices Affordable Annual Technical Support Plan On-site and On-line Training

12 SSS APR - Blumen  Section III – Quick Edit, Verify Data, Verify with Prior Year APR Excel  Participant APR Detail Report  Section III Spreadsheet Report  Creating Excel File to Upload to ED Website  Program Objectives Summary & Detail Reports

13 McNair APR - Blumen  Section II – Quick Edit & Verify Data  Participant APR Detail Report  Creates Excel File to Upload on ED Website  Program Objectives Summary & Detail Reports

14 TS/EOC APR - Blumen  Section II – Re-calculate  Section III – Re-calculate  Section IV - Verify Data  Program Objectives Summary & Detail Reports

15 For More Information: COMPANSOL Blumen Database Program P.O. Box Houston, Texas Phone: (281) Fax: (281) Web Site:

16 Questions & Answers