Articles

  • November Data Cleanup Focus & Progress Updates

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    Overall data cleanup momentum remains strong. October showed a slight increase in partially inactivated users. Please remember to remove Active Directory access when changing an SSIS Admin role to "<NONE>" to prevent unnecessary costs.

    Progress Update


    November Data Clean Up Progress Graphic



    November Focus: RE-Rolling Out the Inactive Open Workgroups Cleanup Effort

    This month's cleanup effort focuses on Inactive Open Workgroups (WGs), including Assessment and Case Management workgroups that have been open for 12 or more months with no activities, contacts, or case notes entered within the past year. Following resolution of an issue identified during the October rollout, corrected agency-specific lists are being re-distributed. Statewide, more than 33,000 inactive open workgroups have been identified for review.

    This effort supports data quality improvements and preparation for future data transition and archiving activities. Open or recently closed workgroups are expected to transition to the new system environment, while older closed workgroups may be archived while remaining accessible when needed. Reducing unnecessary open workgroups helps limit future and ongoing storage and maintenance costs and reduces the volume of information that must be maintained and converted in the future.

    The SSIS Data Cleanup Team is providing agency-specific Excel lists to assist with review. Agencies should evaluate each workgroup and take appropriate action. If a workgroup should remain open, documentation should be brought up to date and reflect ongoing work.

    Reminder: When SSIS is not the system of record, agencies should evaluate whether workgroups are needed/need to remain open – WG’s should not be created solely to associate payments (which are usually not required to have WG associated) nor as passive tracking lists where no documentation occurs.

    When SSIS is the required system of record, in most instances, documentation within a WG would be expected at least annually (for those where that is not the case, agencies should review but can disregard if documentation history is within the expected timelines for that program). For Programs/Services that are not required to be in SSIS but that agencies use WGs in SSIS for documentation purposes, while this is acceptable – agencies should be aware that there are current and future costs associated to these additional open WGs.

    Resources

    Agencies can use the following resources to assist in reviewing/dispositioning Inactive Open Workgroups:

    1. Refer to the email received by the agency SSIS Coordinator (if no SSIS Coordinator then the agency SSIS Worker Mentors will be emailed) for the agency specific list of inactive open workgroups identified.
    2. DCYF Comprehensive Child Welfare Information System Project | Minnesota Engage DCYF – this is the Sentiment and Feedback site, Data Cleanup Effort articles.
    3. SSIS Essentials eLearning – SSIS Essentials 108 – Data Clean-up eLearning (via TrainLink Home Page)
    4. NEW: Data Clean-up: Quick Reference - one page reference for where/when/how to use Data Clean-up Looking Ahead to November.

    As with previous cleanup efforts, 100% completion is not expected during November. The goal is to continue progress while reinforcing good data management practices and ensuring that active, relevant information is maintained within SSIS.

    Engagement & Communication Updates

    Along with this month’s emailed lists of inactive open workgroups, ongoing outreach will continue for agencies still carrying major backlogs in other focus areas.

    Thank you for your continued engagement in strengthening statewide data quality. For questions or support, please check out resources and information shared in this and previous data cleanup posts, and when needed, contact dcyf.ssishelp@state.mn.us for additional assistance.

    Overall data cleanup momentum remains strong. October showed a slight increase in partially inactivated users. Please remember to remove Active Directory access when changing an SSIS Admin role to "<NONE>" to prevent unnecessary costs.

    Progress Update


    November Data Clean Up Progress Graphic



    November Focus: RE-Rolling Out the Inactive Open Workgroups Cleanup Effort

    This month's cleanup effort focuses on Inactive Open Workgroups (WGs), including Assessment and Case Management workgroups that have been open for 12 or more months with no activities, contacts, or case notes entered within the past year. Following resolution of an issue identified during the October rollout, corrected agency-specific lists are being re-distributed. Statewide, more than 33,000 inactive open workgroups have been identified for review.

    This effort supports data quality improvements and preparation for future data transition and archiving activities. Open or recently closed workgroups are expected to transition to the new system environment, while older closed workgroups may be archived while remaining accessible when needed. Reducing unnecessary open workgroups helps limit future and ongoing storage and maintenance costs and reduces the volume of information that must be maintained and converted in the future.

    The SSIS Data Cleanup Team is providing agency-specific Excel lists to assist with review. Agencies should evaluate each workgroup and take appropriate action. If a workgroup should remain open, documentation should be brought up to date and reflect ongoing work.

    Reminder: When SSIS is not the system of record, agencies should evaluate whether workgroups are needed/need to remain open – WG’s should not be created solely to associate payments (which are usually not required to have WG associated) nor as passive tracking lists where no documentation occurs.

    When SSIS is the required system of record, in most instances, documentation within a WG would be expected at least annually (for those where that is not the case, agencies should review but can disregard if documentation history is within the expected timelines for that program). For Programs/Services that are not required to be in SSIS but that agencies use WGs in SSIS for documentation purposes, while this is acceptable – agencies should be aware that there are current and future costs associated to these additional open WGs.

    Resources

    Agencies can use the following resources to assist in reviewing/dispositioning Inactive Open Workgroups:

    1. Refer to the email received by the agency SSIS Coordinator (if no SSIS Coordinator then the agency SSIS Worker Mentors will be emailed) for the agency specific list of inactive open workgroups identified.
    2. DCYF Comprehensive Child Welfare Information System Project | Minnesota Engage DCYF – this is the Sentiment and Feedback site, Data Cleanup Effort articles.
    3. SSIS Essentials eLearning – SSIS Essentials 108 – Data Clean-up eLearning (via TrainLink Home Page)
    4. NEW: Data Clean-up: Quick Reference - one page reference for where/when/how to use Data Clean-up Looking Ahead to November.

    As with previous cleanup efforts, 100% completion is not expected during November. The goal is to continue progress while reinforcing good data management practices and ensuring that active, relevant information is maintained within SSIS.

    Engagement & Communication Updates

    Along with this month’s emailed lists of inactive open workgroups, ongoing outreach will continue for agencies still carrying major backlogs in other focus areas.

    Thank you for your continued engagement in strengthening statewide data quality. For questions or support, please check out resources and information shared in this and previous data cleanup posts, and when needed, contact dcyf.ssishelp@state.mn.us for additional assistance.

  • October Data Cleanup Focus & Progress Updates

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    Although progress slowed somewhat in September, overall momentum remains strong.

    Progress Update

    October Data Clean Up Progress


    October Focus: Continued Work on Previously Rolled-Out Cleanup Efforts

    The Data Cleanup Team has determined that we need to pause the planned cleanup effort focused on Inactive Open Workgroups. A data issue was identified showing that the report used to generate agency-specific lists is inaccurate, and we are actively working to resolve it. Because of this, the Inactive Open Workgroups cleanup will be pushed to November, when corrected lists will be distributed to agencies.


    October Priority

    For October, agencies are asked to continue working on previously rolled-out cleanup efforts, especially where backlogs remain. This includes:

    • Clearing
    • Intakes Needing Action
    • Unassigned Intakes and Workgroups
    • Inactive/Partially Inactivated Users

    These efforts continue to support data integrity, security and readiness for data transitioning and archiving in the new system.


    Looking Ahead to November

    Once our report/data issue is resolved, agencies will receive corrected lists of Inactive Open Workgroups. The formal cleanup effort for this focus area will roll out in November, accompanied by additional guidance and resources.

    Although progress slowed somewhat in September, overall momentum remains strong.

    Progress Update

    October Data Clean Up Progress


    October Focus: Continued Work on Previously Rolled-Out Cleanup Efforts

    The Data Cleanup Team has determined that we need to pause the planned cleanup effort focused on Inactive Open Workgroups. A data issue was identified showing that the report used to generate agency-specific lists is inaccurate, and we are actively working to resolve it. Because of this, the Inactive Open Workgroups cleanup will be pushed to November, when corrected lists will be distributed to agencies.


    October Priority

    For October, agencies are asked to continue working on previously rolled-out cleanup efforts, especially where backlogs remain. This includes:

    • Clearing
    • Intakes Needing Action
    • Unassigned Intakes and Workgroups
    • Inactive/Partially Inactivated Users

    These efforts continue to support data integrity, security and readiness for data transitioning and archiving in the new system.


    Looking Ahead to November

    Once our report/data issue is resolved, agencies will receive corrected lists of Inactive Open Workgroups. The formal cleanup effort for this focus area will roll out in November, accompanied by additional guidance and resources.

  • Celebrating Collaboration in BPM/BPR Sessions

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    Representatives from 30 counties across the state have been busy in July, August, and September after the CCWIS Modernization team kicked off their Business Process Mapping/Redesign (BPM/BPR) sessions. In these sessions, the 66 workers from those agencies have spent time mapping out the current business processes, identifying pain points and discussing hope for the future system in the form of a To-Be Process map. The important work being done during these sessions will have direct influence on the development work for the new system.

    These BPM sessions will occur monthly through December with a new topic area covered each month. If you are interested in more information or participating in one of these sessions, please contact Cassie Navarrete at cassie.navarrete@state.mn.us.

    How will BPR work be used

    The To‑Be BPR maps developed through recent collaboration will be presented to DCYF leadership for review and approval. We will also continue hosting monthly BPM sessions through December, each dedicated to a different functional area. As each To‑Be process is finalized, we will complete an alignment review to ensure all functional areas are working together effectively and consistently.

    Once the Design, Development and Implementation (DDI) vendor selection is complete, the approved To‑Be BPR maps will be reviewed and leveraged during discovery and design sessions to inform the configuration of the new system. The processes that we align today will directly impact on the functionality of the new system.

    The ongoing engagement and insights from the experts at each agency are directly shaping the future CCWIS system by ensuring it reflects the needs and priorities of those who know the work best. Agencies from across the state are encouraged to continue to participate in these sessions and to keep providing feedback so that we can build a system that truly supports our shared vision and operational goals.

    RFP Evaluation

    Progress continues in the procurement for the DDI vendor. Questions from vendors on the RFP content were due to the state in mid-August, and the DCYF and MNIT teams worked diligently to answer the vendor questions. Proposals are due from vendors in early October, at which point a team of state, county, and tribal evaluators will begin the process of scoring proposals.

    Representatives from 30 counties across the state have been busy in July, August, and September after the CCWIS Modernization team kicked off their Business Process Mapping/Redesign (BPM/BPR) sessions. In these sessions, the 66 workers from those agencies have spent time mapping out the current business processes, identifying pain points and discussing hope for the future system in the form of a To-Be Process map. The important work being done during these sessions will have direct influence on the development work for the new system.

    These BPM sessions will occur monthly through December with a new topic area covered each month. If you are interested in more information or participating in one of these sessions, please contact Cassie Navarrete at cassie.navarrete@state.mn.us.

    How will BPR work be used

    The To‑Be BPR maps developed through recent collaboration will be presented to DCYF leadership for review and approval. We will also continue hosting monthly BPM sessions through December, each dedicated to a different functional area. As each To‑Be process is finalized, we will complete an alignment review to ensure all functional areas are working together effectively and consistently.

    Once the Design, Development and Implementation (DDI) vendor selection is complete, the approved To‑Be BPR maps will be reviewed and leveraged during discovery and design sessions to inform the configuration of the new system. The processes that we align today will directly impact on the functionality of the new system.

    The ongoing engagement and insights from the experts at each agency are directly shaping the future CCWIS system by ensuring it reflects the needs and priorities of those who know the work best. Agencies from across the state are encouraged to continue to participate in these sessions and to keep providing feedback so that we can build a system that truly supports our shared vision and operational goals.

    RFP Evaluation

    Progress continues in the procurement for the DDI vendor. Questions from vendors on the RFP content were due to the state in mid-August, and the DCYF and MNIT teams worked diligently to answer the vendor questions. Proposals are due from vendors in early October, at which point a team of state, county, and tribal evaluators will begin the process of scoring proposals.

  • Data Cleanup Efforts Update

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  • CCWIS Modernization - Status Update and Scope

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    Status Update

    On July 20th, Minnesota received official federal approval of the Implementation Advanced Planning Document (IAPD) and associated solicitations, including the Request for Proposal (RFP) for the vendor who will help Minnesota build the new system. Due to the strong partnership formed across DCYF, MNIT and Department of Administration, the RFP was able to quickly progress to posting. On July 27th, the CCWIS RFP was posted and officially live and public. Over the next several months vendors will prepare proposals, and a cross-functional team of state and local agency staff will be evaluating these proposals. Vendors with questions regarding the proposals will submit these questions via the official procurement process by August 10th.

    CCWIS Modernization Scope

    In 2025, legislation was passed providing funding and direction to acquire, implement and configure a data-driven comprehensive child welfare information system (CCWIS). DCYF has worked with county and state partners to plan Minnesota's future child welfare information system.

    The CCWIS Modernization Project is focused on delivering a modern, integrated information system that enhances efficiency, supports daily operations, and improves outcomes for child welfare professionals. The future system will be designed to provide workers with the tools and functionality needed to effectively manage their responsibilities across the child welfare continuum.

    The project scope encompasses key child welfare program areas, including Child Protection Intake and Screening, Child Protection Assessment and Investigation, Child Protection Case Management, Foster Care and Out-of-Home Placement, Adolescent Services, Child Welfare Services, Children’s Mental Health Services, Development Disability Services for Children, and Permanency programs such as Adoption and Kinship Care.

    Decision regarding foster care licensing

    As part of the planning process, the federal Administration of Children and Families (ACF), recommended that DCYF evaluate the possibility of including foster care and kinship care licensing functionality within the core child welfare information system.

    Based on that evaluation, planning activities and partner feedback, DCYF has decided to include foster care and kinship care licensing functionality within the future comprehensive child welfare information system.

    Why this decision was made

    Including foster care licensing functionality within the child welfare information system:

    • Keeps foster care licensing work closely connected to other related child welfare workflows.

    • Aligns Minnesota’s approach with practices commonly being used in other states implementing child welfare information systems.

    • Reflects the interest and support expressed by many planning participants.

    • Increases the federal funding match for this functionality.

    DCYF’s analysis and decision-making process was heavily determined by partner feedback.

    What this means moving forward

    Previously, foster care licensing functionality was expected to be included in the Salesforce Provider and Agency Hub with the goal of creating a shared platform and experience across license types. During this assessment DCYF discussed the current plans with DHS regarding foster care licensing functionality to assess the best fit for this functionality alongside new factors. For several technical reasons, DHS supported the decision to transition child foster care licensing functionality into the future child welfare information system instead. Although this is a shift in system planning, the overall goal remains the same: the state will continue modernizing and supporting child foster care licensing, now within the CCWIS system. Importantly, adding this functionality is not expected to add significant time to the overall project.

    We acknowledge the significance of this change from previous planning efforts. DCYF wants to affirm that partner feedback was a key factor in guiding our analysis and conclusion.

    What happens next

    As next steps take shape, we will continue to gather input from partners and ensure that feedback meaningfully guides future design and implementation decisions. Representatives from county, state, and tribal national partners will continue supporting the evaluation and selection of the future platform and vendor that will help Minnesota build the new system.

    DCYF will continue to gather input and work with partners to help inform future design and implementation decisions. Additionally, DCYF and DHS continue to collaborate to ensure CCWIS can effectively interface with other licensing systems, such as the Provider Hub, to reduce duplication and support counties and providers who must work across both systems.

    Business Process Mapping/Redesign Sessions

    DCYF is continuing the work to modernize and replace SSIS with a new Comprehensive Child Welfare Information System (CCWIS). As part of this effort, are working hard to ensure that the people who are actively doing this work every day can actively participate in the project.

    We want to extend our sincere gratitude to each of you who participated in the July and August Business Process Mapping (BPM) and Business Process Redesign (BPR) sessions. Across the 3 sessions held in these months, 26 counties were represented and we had the privilege of working with 52 agency representatives either in-person or virtually. This broad participation is incredibly valuable, ensuring perspectives of those who are in the field remain at the forefront as we move closer to making the vision of a new system a reality.

    We continue to seek representatives from agencies to participate in Business Process Mapping (BPM) sessions each month through January. Each BPM topic follows a three-week cycle:

    • Week A – In Person: Business Process Mapping (BPM) Mapping documents how work is done today, step by step, through shared discussion and workflow documentation.

    • Week B – Virtual Review: Virtual reviewers examine Week A BPM materials and provide feedback to clarify or strengthen workflows. Time commitment is expected to be approximately 4 hours for the reviewer to examine materials on their own time, followed by a one-hour virtual meeting to discuss the materials and provide their feedback and insights.

    • Week C – In Person: Business Process Redesign (BPR) Redesign uses insights from BPM to streamline, improve, or update each workflow for CCWIS.

    These BPM sessions will occur monthly through January with a new topic area covered each month. If you are interested in more information or participating in one of these sessions, please contact Cassie Navarrete at cassie.navarrete@state.mn.us.

    Getting Involved and Asking Questions

    DCYF appreciates the close partnership with local and state agency staff who have provided expertise and insight into this decision, along with many others throughout this planning stage. There are many opportunities to come for partners to get involved and ensure their voice is heard at each phase in this project.

    To receive regular updates regarding the progress of this project and to stay up to date with potential participation opportunities, please subscribe to email updates and continue to visit our CCWIS Engagement and Updates site.

    Questions and feedback may be submitted through Cassie Navarrete, cassie.navarrete@state.mn.us.

    Status Update

    On July 20th, Minnesota received official federal approval of the Implementation Advanced Planning Document (IAPD) and associated solicitations, including the Request for Proposal (RFP) for the vendor who will help Minnesota build the new system. Due to the strong partnership formed across DCYF, MNIT and Department of Administration, the RFP was able to quickly progress to posting. On July 27th, the CCWIS RFP was posted and officially live and public. Over the next several months vendors will prepare proposals, and a cross-functional team of state and local agency staff will be evaluating these proposals. Vendors with questions regarding the proposals will submit these questions via the official procurement process by August 10th.

    CCWIS Modernization Scope

    In 2025, legislation was passed providing funding and direction to acquire, implement and configure a data-driven comprehensive child welfare information system (CCWIS). DCYF has worked with county and state partners to plan Minnesota's future child welfare information system.

    The CCWIS Modernization Project is focused on delivering a modern, integrated information system that enhances efficiency, supports daily operations, and improves outcomes for child welfare professionals. The future system will be designed to provide workers with the tools and functionality needed to effectively manage their responsibilities across the child welfare continuum.

    The project scope encompasses key child welfare program areas, including Child Protection Intake and Screening, Child Protection Assessment and Investigation, Child Protection Case Management, Foster Care and Out-of-Home Placement, Adolescent Services, Child Welfare Services, Children’s Mental Health Services, Development Disability Services for Children, and Permanency programs such as Adoption and Kinship Care.

    Decision regarding foster care licensing

    As part of the planning process, the federal Administration of Children and Families (ACF), recommended that DCYF evaluate the possibility of including foster care and kinship care licensing functionality within the core child welfare information system.

    Based on that evaluation, planning activities and partner feedback, DCYF has decided to include foster care and kinship care licensing functionality within the future comprehensive child welfare information system.

    Why this decision was made

    Including foster care licensing functionality within the child welfare information system:

    • Keeps foster care licensing work closely connected to other related child welfare workflows.

    • Aligns Minnesota’s approach with practices commonly being used in other states implementing child welfare information systems.

    • Reflects the interest and support expressed by many planning participants.

    • Increases the federal funding match for this functionality.

    DCYF’s analysis and decision-making process was heavily determined by partner feedback.

    What this means moving forward

    Previously, foster care licensing functionality was expected to be included in the Salesforce Provider and Agency Hub with the goal of creating a shared platform and experience across license types. During this assessment DCYF discussed the current plans with DHS regarding foster care licensing functionality to assess the best fit for this functionality alongside new factors. For several technical reasons, DHS supported the decision to transition child foster care licensing functionality into the future child welfare information system instead. Although this is a shift in system planning, the overall goal remains the same: the state will continue modernizing and supporting child foster care licensing, now within the CCWIS system. Importantly, adding this functionality is not expected to add significant time to the overall project.

    We acknowledge the significance of this change from previous planning efforts. DCYF wants to affirm that partner feedback was a key factor in guiding our analysis and conclusion.

    What happens next

    As next steps take shape, we will continue to gather input from partners and ensure that feedback meaningfully guides future design and implementation decisions. Representatives from county, state, and tribal national partners will continue supporting the evaluation and selection of the future platform and vendor that will help Minnesota build the new system.

    DCYF will continue to gather input and work with partners to help inform future design and implementation decisions. Additionally, DCYF and DHS continue to collaborate to ensure CCWIS can effectively interface with other licensing systems, such as the Provider Hub, to reduce duplication and support counties and providers who must work across both systems.

    Business Process Mapping/Redesign Sessions

    DCYF is continuing the work to modernize and replace SSIS with a new Comprehensive Child Welfare Information System (CCWIS). As part of this effort, are working hard to ensure that the people who are actively doing this work every day can actively participate in the project.

    We want to extend our sincere gratitude to each of you who participated in the July and August Business Process Mapping (BPM) and Business Process Redesign (BPR) sessions. Across the 3 sessions held in these months, 26 counties were represented and we had the privilege of working with 52 agency representatives either in-person or virtually. This broad participation is incredibly valuable, ensuring perspectives of those who are in the field remain at the forefront as we move closer to making the vision of a new system a reality.

    We continue to seek representatives from agencies to participate in Business Process Mapping (BPM) sessions each month through January. Each BPM topic follows a three-week cycle:

    • Week A – In Person: Business Process Mapping (BPM) Mapping documents how work is done today, step by step, through shared discussion and workflow documentation.

    • Week B – Virtual Review: Virtual reviewers examine Week A BPM materials and provide feedback to clarify or strengthen workflows. Time commitment is expected to be approximately 4 hours for the reviewer to examine materials on their own time, followed by a one-hour virtual meeting to discuss the materials and provide their feedback and insights.

    • Week C – In Person: Business Process Redesign (BPR) Redesign uses insights from BPM to streamline, improve, or update each workflow for CCWIS.

    These BPM sessions will occur monthly through January with a new topic area covered each month. If you are interested in more information or participating in one of these sessions, please contact Cassie Navarrete at cassie.navarrete@state.mn.us.

    Getting Involved and Asking Questions

    DCYF appreciates the close partnership with local and state agency staff who have provided expertise and insight into this decision, along with many others throughout this planning stage. There are many opportunities to come for partners to get involved and ensure their voice is heard at each phase in this project.

    To receive regular updates regarding the progress of this project and to stay up to date with potential participation opportunities, please subscribe to email updates and continue to visit our CCWIS Engagement and Updates site.

    Questions and feedback may be submitted through Cassie Navarrete, cassie.navarrete@state.mn.us.

  • August Data Cleanup Focus and Progress Updates

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    As we transition into August, agencies continue to make strong progress across cleanup focus areas.

    Progress Update

    Data Cleanup Effort Graphic July 2026


    August Focus: Inactive SSIS User Access Cleanup

    This month’s cleanup priority is an important one for both system security and IT resource management. Inactive User Access Cleanup should focus on users with 90+ days since last login who still have an active SSIS role or temp role and/or Active Directory access setup.

    Agencies should review SSIS access for all staff who have not logged in for 90 days or more. Currently, over 4,000 agency users, statewide, still hold an active SSIS role despite being inactive for 90 or more days, including many who have never logged into SSIS.

    To assist with this review, SSIS Admin’s User Search grid includes optional grid columns for Last Logon Date and Days Since Last Logon, each of which was added last year to assist agency administrators with effective user management.

    Why this cleanup matters

    Inactive accounts pose security concerns as well as monthly costs. DCYF is charged $17 per user per month for SSIS Active Directory access—regardless of whether the user logs in. Cleaning up inactive accounts ensures that IT dollars are being used effectively and not lost on users that don’t need current SSIS access.

    Resources

    Agencies can use the following resources to assist in reviewing/inactivating inactive SSIS user accounts:

    1. User (Search, Add, Edit, Inactivate) – Guidance for searching, adding, editing and inactivating users.
    2. SSIS Administration Overview – Overview of SSIS Admin features.
    3. SSIS Coffee Talk Archive –the April 21, 2026 Coffee Talk archive - slides 31-32 shows how to set up the User Search Grid in SSIS Admin to quickly identify inactive users. When reviewing the grid, filter out blanks, State Employee, and External Placement Case Manager from the Employee Type column, since these staff are not included in inactive user counts. Then sort or filter by either the Days Since Last Log On or Last Log On Date column to locate users who may need access review. A more detailed reminder on adjusting the grid for this use will also be included in the next SSIS Update.
    4. NEW: SSIS User Inactivation One‑Page Reference SSIS User Inactivation

    Engagement & Communication Updates

    Outreach will continue to agencies with high totals of inactive users and to agencies still carrying significant backlogs in earlier clean up focus areas.

    Thank you for your continued engagement in strengthening statewide data quality. Your efforts are making a noticeable difference. For questions or support, please check out resources and information shared in this and previous data cleanup posts, and when needed contact dcyf.ssishelp@state.mn.us for additional assistance.

    As we transition into August, agencies continue to make strong progress across cleanup focus areas.

    Progress Update

    Data Cleanup Effort Graphic July 2026


    August Focus: Inactive SSIS User Access Cleanup

    This month’s cleanup priority is an important one for both system security and IT resource management. Inactive User Access Cleanup should focus on users with 90+ days since last login who still have an active SSIS role or temp role and/or Active Directory access setup.

    Agencies should review SSIS access for all staff who have not logged in for 90 days or more. Currently, over 4,000 agency users, statewide, still hold an active SSIS role despite being inactive for 90 or more days, including many who have never logged into SSIS.

    To assist with this review, SSIS Admin’s User Search grid includes optional grid columns for Last Logon Date and Days Since Last Logon, each of which was added last year to assist agency administrators with effective user management.

    Why this cleanup matters

    Inactive accounts pose security concerns as well as monthly costs. DCYF is charged $17 per user per month for SSIS Active Directory access—regardless of whether the user logs in. Cleaning up inactive accounts ensures that IT dollars are being used effectively and not lost on users that don’t need current SSIS access.

    Resources

    Agencies can use the following resources to assist in reviewing/inactivating inactive SSIS user accounts:

    1. User (Search, Add, Edit, Inactivate) – Guidance for searching, adding, editing and inactivating users.
    2. SSIS Administration Overview – Overview of SSIS Admin features.
    3. SSIS Coffee Talk Archive –the April 21, 2026 Coffee Talk archive - slides 31-32 shows how to set up the User Search Grid in SSIS Admin to quickly identify inactive users. When reviewing the grid, filter out blanks, State Employee, and External Placement Case Manager from the Employee Type column, since these staff are not included in inactive user counts. Then sort or filter by either the Days Since Last Log On or Last Log On Date column to locate users who may need access review. A more detailed reminder on adjusting the grid for this use will also be included in the next SSIS Update.
    4. NEW: SSIS User Inactivation One‑Page Reference SSIS User Inactivation

    Engagement & Communication Updates

    Outreach will continue to agencies with high totals of inactive users and to agencies still carrying significant backlogs in earlier clean up focus areas.

    Thank you for your continued engagement in strengthening statewide data quality. Your efforts are making a noticeable difference. For questions or support, please check out resources and information shared in this and previous data cleanup posts, and when needed contact dcyf.ssishelp@state.mn.us for additional assistance.

  • SSIS Data Clean-Up Efforts: Focus Area Update – Unassigned Intakes & Workgroups

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    As we continue our statewide data clean-up work, the SSIS/CCWIS data cleanup team will maintain regular tracking and monitoring of agency progress on Clearing and Intakes Needing Action. While these remain key metrics, this month we are expanding our efforts with a new focus area: Unassigned Intakes and Unassigned Workgroups.

    Quick Update on Cleanup Progress Thus Far

    Image of Statewide Progress. Clearing 46.39% and Intakes Needing Action 49.49% Improvement


    Statewide efforts continue to show strong momentum with significant decreases in clearing and Intake Needing Action backlog totals.

    More than half of agencies have made measurable progress in reducing backlogs. Thank you for your continued work—your efforts are making a noticeable impact across

    As we continue our statewide data clean-up work, the SSIS/CCWIS data cleanup team will maintain regular tracking and monitoring of agency progress on Clearing and Intakes Needing Action. While these remain key metrics, this month we are expanding our efforts with a new focus area: Unassigned Intakes and Unassigned Workgroups.

    Quick Update on Cleanup Progress Thus Far

    Image of Statewide Progress. Clearing 46.39% and Intakes Needing Action 49.49% Improvement


    Statewide efforts continue to show strong momentum with significant decreases in clearing and Intake Needing Action backlog totals.

    More than half of agencies have made measurable progress in reducing backlogs. Thank you for your continued work—your efforts are making a noticeable impact across the state.

    New Focus Area: Unassigned Intakes & Workgroups

    This month, agencies are encouraged to prioritize resolving unassigned intakes and unassigned workgroups. These items represent important workflow handoffs and are essential for:

    • Maintaining accurate worker history
    • Ensuring timely progression from intake → assessment → case management
    • Reducing gaps that complicate data mapping during CCWIS conversion.

    As of early June, there were 1500 (775 intakes, and 725 Assess/CM) unassigned intakes/workgroups – all open for 30+ days.

    What Agencies Can Expect

    Outreach:

    Over the next several weeks, the SSIS/CCWIS data clean‑up team will

    • Continue to review statewide trends within this new focus area
    • Monitor agency-level reductions
    • Offer support to agencies with rising or persistent totals (for earlier efforts), and proactively contact agencies with the highest totals in the new focus area
    • Continue to track Clearing and INA progress alongside this new effort

    Resources:

    These tools can assist in identifying and resolving unassigned items. Agencies are encouraged to review the above job aids for how to utilize the Unassigned Intakes and Unassigned Workgroups grids.

    Ongoing Updates:

    Updates will continue to be posted at least monthly on the Sentiment & Feedback site. Progress will also be shared at Coffee Talks, Technical Meetings, through SSIS Update articles and other communication opportunities.

    Looking Ahead: Recognizing Agency Efforts

    To support momentum, we are exploring some friendly competition or recognition ideas as part of cleanup efforts. Agencies vary widely in size and starting points (some are just starting to clean up large backlogs, and some have no backlogs and are working on maintenance), we welcome creative ideas from agency mentors. We hope to roll out our first initiative by the end of summer.

    Thank you for your continued engagement in strengthening statewide data quality. Your efforts are making a noticeable difference. For questions or support, please contact dcyf.ssishelp@state.mn.us.

  • Readiness Phase I Complete

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    Over the past several months, we have been working diligently to plan and prepare for the future modernized Comprehensive Child Welfare Information System (CCWIS). The CCWIS effort is not a rebuild of SSIS but an opportunity to assess functionality and processes to find opportunities for improvement in how Minnesota supports child welfare work. The focus is on creating flexible tools, reducing duplication, improving auditability, and using automation and data exchanges where they make sense. The goal is to better support today’s case management needs and build a system that can adapt over time in order to better serve the children, youth and families of Minnesota.

    Work done in phase 1

    During Phase 1 of Readiness, much has been accomplished. This phase of readiness has included collaboration with MNIT and vendor partners to define scope, develop requirements, prepare procurement solicitations, submit required federal planning documents- Planning Advance Planning Document, Implementation Advance Planning Document, and Operational Advance Planning Document (PAPD/IAPD/OAPD)- and to ensure a strong foundation for project’s success moving forward. A wide network of partners have been involved, including Tribal Nations, counties, and state agencies.

    More than 40 focus groups and review sessions were held with over 300 participants. These sessions covered requirements for all major program areas such as intake, investigations, case management, Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), Minnesota Indian Family Preservation Act (MIFPA), Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act (MAAFPCWDA), fiscal, licensing, and more. End-to-end reviews were completed in late April through mid-May. Additional work has been underway on template and document planning and RFP development, including the Data Quality Plan. All documents required by our federal partners as part of the IAPD were submitted to the Administration of Children and Families (ACF) in May and are currently under federal review.

    Moving towards phase 2

    Next steps include starting Phase 2 of readiness with our vendor, focusing on data clean-up and data migration readiness, future-state business process design, and continued partner engagement. Opportunities for engagement will come for multiple groups, including counties and American Indian Child Welfare Initiative (AICWI) Tribal Nations— as we will need participation in reviewing and re-imagining processes and evaluating vendor proposals. An inter-agency Request for Proposal (RFP) evaluation team, including county and tribal members, has been established to participate in the upcoming procurement process, which will begin once federal approval of the IAPD has been granted. Counties and Tribal Nations are also encouraged to continue to focus their efforts on the data cleanup efforts.

    Thank you to all partners who continue to contribute time, expertise, and insight as we, together, shape the future of Minnesota’s child welfare information system.

    Over the past several months, we have been working diligently to plan and prepare for the future modernized Comprehensive Child Welfare Information System (CCWIS). The CCWIS effort is not a rebuild of SSIS but an opportunity to assess functionality and processes to find opportunities for improvement in how Minnesota supports child welfare work. The focus is on creating flexible tools, reducing duplication, improving auditability, and using automation and data exchanges where they make sense. The goal is to better support today’s case management needs and build a system that can adapt over time in order to better serve the children, youth and families of Minnesota.

    Work done in phase 1

    During Phase 1 of Readiness, much has been accomplished. This phase of readiness has included collaboration with MNIT and vendor partners to define scope, develop requirements, prepare procurement solicitations, submit required federal planning documents- Planning Advance Planning Document, Implementation Advance Planning Document, and Operational Advance Planning Document (PAPD/IAPD/OAPD)- and to ensure a strong foundation for project’s success moving forward. A wide network of partners have been involved, including Tribal Nations, counties, and state agencies.

    More than 40 focus groups and review sessions were held with over 300 participants. These sessions covered requirements for all major program areas such as intake, investigations, case management, Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), Minnesota Indian Family Preservation Act (MIFPA), Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act (MAAFPCWDA), fiscal, licensing, and more. End-to-end reviews were completed in late April through mid-May. Additional work has been underway on template and document planning and RFP development, including the Data Quality Plan. All documents required by our federal partners as part of the IAPD were submitted to the Administration of Children and Families (ACF) in May and are currently under federal review.

    Moving towards phase 2

    Next steps include starting Phase 2 of readiness with our vendor, focusing on data clean-up and data migration readiness, future-state business process design, and continued partner engagement. Opportunities for engagement will come for multiple groups, including counties and American Indian Child Welfare Initiative (AICWI) Tribal Nations— as we will need participation in reviewing and re-imagining processes and evaluating vendor proposals. An inter-agency Request for Proposal (RFP) evaluation team, including county and tribal members, has been established to participate in the upcoming procurement process, which will begin once federal approval of the IAPD has been granted. Counties and Tribal Nations are also encouraged to continue to focus their efforts on the data cleanup efforts.

    Thank you to all partners who continue to contribute time, expertise, and insight as we, together, shape the future of Minnesota’s child welfare information system.

  • Data Cleanup Efforts Update

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    SSIS Data Cleanup Efforts Continue to Show Strong Progress Across Minnesota

    Minnesota’s SSIS data cleanup efforts continue to show strong, measurable progress. Counties and tribal nations have significantly reduced both the Clearing Log and Intakes Needing Action (INA) backlogs through sustained focus and collaboration.

    Statewide Highlights (as of June 9):

    • Clearing Log Backlog: Now at 15,236 records — a 48% reduction since March.

    • Intakes Needing Action: Down 37%, now at just under 14,000 statewide. Data Cleanup Effort Graph June 2026

    Agency Level Progress

    Agencies across the state continue to make steady improvements in both Intakes Needing Action and Clearing work:

    • 52 agencies reduced their Intakes Needing Action between March and June 9.

    • 68 agencies reduced their Clearing Log totals during the same period.

    These reductions reflect your dedicated cleanup work and strong collaboration—both within agencies and between agencies and SSIS state staff. This progress also demonstrates a shared understanding that quality data supports better outcomes for children, families, and workers.

    Thank you for your continued engagement and partnership in these cleanup efforts. Your work is making a real, measurable difference.

    For questions or support, please email dcyf.ssishelp@state.mn.us.


    SSIS Data Cleanup Efforts Continue to Show Strong Progress Across Minnesota

    Minnesota’s SSIS data cleanup efforts continue to show strong, measurable progress. Counties and tribal nations have significantly reduced both the Clearing Log and Intakes Needing Action (INA) backlogs through sustained focus and collaboration.

    Statewide Highlights (as of June 9):

    • Clearing Log Backlog: Now at 15,236 records — a 48% reduction since March.

    • Intakes Needing Action: Down 37%, now at just under 14,000 statewide. Data Cleanup Effort Graph June 2026

    Agency Level Progress

    Agencies across the state continue to make steady improvements in both Intakes Needing Action and Clearing work:

    • 52 agencies reduced their Intakes Needing Action between March and June 9.

    • 68 agencies reduced their Clearing Log totals during the same period.

    These reductions reflect your dedicated cleanup work and strong collaboration—both within agencies and between agencies and SSIS state staff. This progress also demonstrates a shared understanding that quality data supports better outcomes for children, families, and workers.

    Thank you for your continued engagement and partnership in these cleanup efforts. Your work is making a real, measurable difference.

    For questions or support, please email dcyf.ssishelp@state.mn.us.


  • SSIS Data Clean-Up Efforts: Focus Area Update – Intakes Needing Action

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    As we continue our statewide data clean-up work, SSIS/CCWIS will maintain regular tracking and monitoring of agency progress on Clearing. While Clearing remains an important metric, this month we are expanding our efforts with a new primary focus area: Intakes Needing Action.

    Quick Update on Clearing Progress

    Agencies across the state continue to make measurable progress in reducing the number of uncleared clients and workgroups. Over 50% of agencies statewide saw significant reductions in clearing log totals this past month. Though we did see some increases in totals for around 10 agencies, some of the increases may be related to inaccurate counts of reconcile records on the clearing logs in previous months so may not actually constitute an increase in clearing log totals.

    Moving forward these will be included in the total clearing log counts and should be reconciled timely along with uncleared clients.

    The chart below highlights the top 10 agencies contributing to statewide clearing‑log reductions. These agencies collectively reduced their clearing totals by 4,168 clients, representing most of the statewide progress from March to May. Showing the percentage of contribution of each agency helps illustrate their impact on overall improvement.

    Clearing Log Improvement Graph

    Thank you for your ongoing focus and efforts—your work is making a noticeable difference.

    New Focus Area: Intakes Needing Action

    This month, agencies are encouraged to prioritize reviewing and resolving Intakes Needing Action, with an emphasis on reducing backlogs and improving timeliness.

    Addressing these older intakes supports accuracy throughout the entire child welfare workflow — from intake to assessments and case management — and helps ensure that children, families, and adults do not fall through the cracks due to incomplete or delayed information.

    Over the next several weeks, the SSIS/CCWIS data clean up team will:

    • Review statewide Intakes Needing Action trends and progress
    • Monitor agency-level reductions
    • Reach out/offer support to agencies with high or persistent backlogs
    • Continue to track and report Clearing progress alongside this new focus area

    What Agencies Can Expect

    • Outreach: Agencies with high numbers of uncleared clients and/or high volumes of Intakes Needing Action will be contacted before June 1st
    • Resources:
    • Ongoing Updates: Updates are posted at least monthly on the Sentiment & Feedback site. Short updates will also be provided at various coffee talks, Technical mtgs as well as SSIS Update articles.

    Thank you for your continued engagement and leadership in improving data quality statewide. Your efforts are making a noticeable difference. For questions or support, please email dcyf.ssishelp@state.mn.us.


    As we continue our statewide data clean-up work, SSIS/CCWIS will maintain regular tracking and monitoring of agency progress on Clearing. While Clearing remains an important metric, this month we are expanding our efforts with a new primary focus area: Intakes Needing Action.

    Quick Update on Clearing Progress

    Agencies across the state continue to make measurable progress in reducing the number of uncleared clients and workgroups. Over 50% of agencies statewide saw significant reductions in clearing log totals this past month. Though we did see some increases in totals for around 10 agencies, some of the increases may be related to inaccurate counts of reconcile records on the clearing logs in previous months so may not actually constitute an increase in clearing log totals.

    Moving forward these will be included in the total clearing log counts and should be reconciled timely along with uncleared clients.

    The chart below highlights the top 10 agencies contributing to statewide clearing‑log reductions. These agencies collectively reduced their clearing totals by 4,168 clients, representing most of the statewide progress from March to May. Showing the percentage of contribution of each agency helps illustrate their impact on overall improvement.

    Clearing Log Improvement Graph

    Thank you for your ongoing focus and efforts—your work is making a noticeable difference.

    New Focus Area: Intakes Needing Action

    This month, agencies are encouraged to prioritize reviewing and resolving Intakes Needing Action, with an emphasis on reducing backlogs and improving timeliness.

    Addressing these older intakes supports accuracy throughout the entire child welfare workflow — from intake to assessments and case management — and helps ensure that children, families, and adults do not fall through the cracks due to incomplete or delayed information.

    Over the next several weeks, the SSIS/CCWIS data clean up team will:

    • Review statewide Intakes Needing Action trends and progress
    • Monitor agency-level reductions
    • Reach out/offer support to agencies with high or persistent backlogs
    • Continue to track and report Clearing progress alongside this new focus area

    What Agencies Can Expect

    • Outreach: Agencies with high numbers of uncleared clients and/or high volumes of Intakes Needing Action will be contacted before June 1st
    • Resources:
    • Ongoing Updates: Updates are posted at least monthly on the Sentiment & Feedback site. Short updates will also be provided at various coffee talks, Technical mtgs as well as SSIS Update articles.

    Thank you for your continued engagement and leadership in improving data quality statewide. Your efforts are making a noticeable difference. For questions or support, please email dcyf.ssishelp@state.mn.us.