Promising Practices

On-line Assistance and Referral Tool
Michigan

In December 2004, Michigan redesigned its on-line self-screening tool, the Michigan Assistance and Referral Service (MARS). The Family Independence Agency, Department of Community Health, and WIC staffs worked together to come up with improvements. Improvements were based on employee suggestions and by comparing the old MARS tool with screening tools from other states. The staffs changed the tool’s framework and technology so that it would be easier to use, and so they could share data between the three agencies. It can be accessed from all three agencies’ web sites, but the direct web site is www.michigan.gov/mars . The tool makes screening for eligibility simpler, easier, and faster and can provide statistical data for future decisions. When the project is fully implemented (including a Spanish version) it will reduce current work responsibilities at the point of initial contact. Michigan will also add a database to save information and pre-fill an application from simple web-based questions. Full implementation of the project includes an online application and full integration with the current registration system.

The one drawback is that the tool requires frequent maintenance due to program policy changes and updating must be done quickly

Suggestion: Use what other States have done when develop a screening tool.

For more information, contact:

The Family Independence and Support Agency
Program Coordination and Support
(517) 241-7040

Last modified: 04/30/2009