This paper was written initially drafted in 2011 and was updated in 2012. While the Commonwealth of MA has made significant strides to improve systems and increase efficiencies over the last five years, there is still room to further automate processes and use data to improve outcomes. By adopting an “Opening Doors” approach that is strategic and outcome-oriented, the State can measure performance on key indicators – such as length of homelessness and returns to homelessness. Data and technology are tools that are available that will ultimately reduce the overall costs to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the communities within the Commonwealth, will adequately support the housing needs of all individuals and families and ultimately reduce and end family homelessness in MA.
