SHIPTools:
Implementation

Why was SHIPTools created?

The need for SHIPTools came out of three previous web-based initiatives that HAP was working on with Iowa and Ohio SHIP programs.  During the pilot phases for these separate initiatives, there was a lot of crossover with regards to the functionality of these different initiatives, such as with database management for example. Recognizing the duplicative nature of parts of these three web-based tools, HAP began to explore the feasibility of creating one tool that allows SHIP programs to meet all of their programmatic functions in the most efficient manner.   

To address this while reducing development and administrative costs, HAP created one web-based application that could be fully customizable down to the individual counselor level.  This web-based application, SHIPTools, connects the three previous stand-alone applications into one new code base to accommodate the diversity of SHIP program needs, while also allowing SHIPs to meet their programmatic needs, such as reporting, training, and volunteer management, in the most efficient manner.

It is important to note that through the creation of SHIPTools, the ORS is no longer supported as a stand-alone application, but rather is a component of SHIPTools. A state program that implements SHIPTools has access to the ORS as well as many other functions.

(Return to SHIPTools: Implementation)