Delaware looks to improve child support system

The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services signed a three-and-a-half year, $47 million contract to modernize its child support enforcement system through Affiliated Computer Services, the company said Monday.

The deal will use ACS technology to increase collections and improve customer service for the DHSS Division of Child Support Enforcement (DCSE). Joining ACS as a sub-contractor is Protech Solutions, Inc., an Arkansas-based specialist in CSE systems who also have projects in Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Texas and Iowa. Protech will leverage its experience in web-based solutions, including a product called CSEnext- a pre-built online repository of business objects integrated into a robust application framework that encompasses workflow processes, business analytics, and enterprise content management.

The solution will help automate case initiation, expand referral capabilities with other state agencies, increase Family Court integration, reduce duplicate data entry, improve caseload monitoring as well as improve overall access by case stakeholders. The web-based will be less expensive and easier to stand up than a full-system replacement, officials from Protech Solutions said in a release.

“Replacing the legacy child support system is long overdue,” DCSE director, Charles Hayward, said in a statement. “We’re also able to design the program to meet our current needs and have it grow to serve into the future.”