INDEX Technology Solutions for Nonprofits - Accessible Housing Database : Sample Features

Our database design includes several features that maximize our client's resources used to keep data current and complete, as well as help track staff efforts for reporting to funding agencies.
These features include:
- A Web-based form that allows managers and owners of accessible housing to easily report vacancies and/or to update their development information in the database.
- A Vacancy Log, which tracks vacancy-related activities completed by the managing agency.
- Fact sheets and help documents designed to be published by the data managing agency with no need for HTML knowledge.

Delivering current, relevant housing information to consumers via the Web requires an interface searchers can use with little or no training. In recognition that most searchers want information on vacant units first, a predefined search is included in the database, giving users one-click access to a list of current vacancies state-wide.
A multi-variable search form allows searches by:
- number of bedrooms
- rent type (low, moderate, market)
- accessibility status (accessible or adaptable)
- location
- features of the development

registration database for multiple administrative users
- Web-administered database of registered users with administrative functions such as approving submitted records, publishing vacancies and accessing statistical information
anonymous submission of updates with staff approval
- owner-, development-, and/or unit records could be updated on-line by anyone, then be reviewed by content-management staff. Once approved, updates could be published without additional data entry
vacancy search and browse by county
- format similar to state-wide vacancy search (clickable hyperlink returns current vacancy list)
- gives user the option of limiting search results to ILC Region or to county selected in drop-down list
link to mapping software or mapping service
records, forms, and searches in languages other than English

Accessible Housing Database: Sample Features