Policy Memo (358.90 KB)
| DATE: | April 2, 2019 | |
| MEMO CODE: | SP18 CACFP06 SFSP05-2019 | |
| SUBJECT: | Child Nutrition Information Technology Solutions: Guidance for the Initial Phase of Child Nutrition Programs System Replacement and Upgrade Projects | |
| TO: | Regional Directors Special Nutrition Programs All Regions |
State Directors Child Nutrition Programs All States |
This memorandum is the first in a series of guidance memoranda to support state agencies administering the child nutrition programs as they enhance or build Information Technology (IT) solutions for their state agency operations. The memorandum discusses the evaluation of a state’s current IT solution, factors to consider when selecting an IT solution and available IT solution options. The guidance series will provide state agencies with best practices and practical direction on child nutrition IT system planning, procurement, project management, data ownership and intellectual property and testing.
The attached guidance relies heavily on information incorporated in FNS Handbook 901: The Advance Planning Document Process: A State Systems Guide to America’s Food Programs which was developed to assist SAs administering the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) navigate through a formal, mandatory planning process for IT projects. Although this guidance is not mandatory for Child Nutrition Programs, the Handbook 901 contains a multitude of best practices and procurement information that is also applicable to Child Nutrition agencies. For more in-depth information, you are encouraged to reference the Handbook 901 at: Link to FNS Handbook 901.
Sarah E. Smith-Holmes
Director
Program Monitoring and Operational Support Division
Child Nutrition Programs