Connect with us

Technology

Child Welfare Agencies’ Challenges With Software Selection Addressed in Info-Tech Research Group’s New Framework

Published

on

Using research insights from Info-Tech’s recent blueprint, child welfare agencies can tackle the complex challenges of software selection and modernization. This new resource provides solutions to common hurdles, including misleading vendor pitches, intricate RFPs, and lengthy decision-making timelines. By empowering IT leaders to make informed, data-driven decisions, the global research and advisory firm’s framework will streamline processes, improve service delivery, and ultimately foster better outcomes for youth and families in need.

TORONTO, Dec. 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ – Child welfare agencies are at a critical juncture where outdated systems, fragmented platforms, and the rising costs of modernization threaten their ability to meet compliance demands and provide effective services. To address these pressing challenges, Info-Tech Research Group has published its blueprint, Leverage a Rapid Application Selection Framework to Support Youth and Family Services Agencies, offering a step-by-step framework designed to streamline operations, modernize technology, and improve service delivery. By implementing these practical strategies, IT leaders in the agencies can drive meaningful outcomes and better support youth and families in need.

“The integration of advanced technologies in child welfare services presents significant opportunities for improving outcomes for youth, families, and the foster care population,” says Neal Rosenblatt, principal research director at Info-Tech Research Group. “Addressing the ongoing challenges and making targeted investments in technology are crucial steps toward realizing this potential.”

Info-Tech’s newly published blueprint emphasizes that with no universal solution available to meet the diverse needs of child welfare agencies, identifying technology tailored to specific organizational requirements while addressing broader system modernization challenges is a critical priority. The firm’s resource provides valuable insights into emerging trends, key challenges, and strategic technology investments, along with a rapid application selection framework designed to guide agencies through the complexities of legacy system modernization.

The potential integration of advanced technologies in child welfare services presents significant opportunities for improving outcomes for youth, families, and the foster care population. The firm advises that addressing the ongoing challenges and making targeted investments in technology are crucial steps toward realizing this potential.

Selecting the right software to support critical operations has long been a significant hurdle. In its Leverage a Rapid Application Selection Framework to Support Youth and Family Services Agencies blueprint, Info-Tech outlines the software selection challenges IT leaders in child welfare agencies can face. These challenges, which can delay progress and reduce impact for children and families, include the following:

Vendors put on dog and pony shows: Vendors often captivate audiences with glossy presentations and persuasive sales tactics that obscure the real capabilities or limitations of their software. This approach can mislead decision-makers, resulting in solutions that fail to deliver on key requirements after implementation. RFP overload kills momentum: The traditionally exhaustive approach to request for proposals (RFPs) involves creating lengthy lists of standard must-have features. While these documents are designed to be thorough, they frequently become overly intricate, slowing down the process and diverting precious time and resources away from high-level strategic decisions.Selection takes forever: Conventional software selection processes can be lengthy, stretching for months or even years. This delays the adoption of modern technologies that could address operational challenges and improve outcomes.Stakeholders aren’t satisfied: After lengthy and costly implementations, stakeholders find that the selected solution falls short of meeting critical expectations and organizational needs. This can lead to dissatisfaction, wasted investments, and a continuation of inefficient practices.Decisions aren’t data-driven: Decision-making within the software selection process is frequently guided by instinct or intuition rather than objective data. This lack of a structured, data-driven approach increases the likelihood of choosing systems that inadequately serve the organization’s goals.Negotiations are a weak link: Contract negotiations can be another stumbling block, as agencies without seasoned negotiators may leave money, value, or key deliverables on the table during vendor agreements. This often results in subpar deals that don’t maximize financial and operational benefits.

By adopting Info-Tech’s Rapid Application Selection Framework, youth and family services agencies can overcome these challenges and streamline their software selection process. The structured approach detailed in the blueprint can accelerate decision-making, ensure alignment with organizational needs, and help agencies avoid common pitfalls.

For exclusive and timely commentary from Neal Rosenblatt, an expert in public health research science, or to access to the complete Leverage a Rapid Application Selection Framework to Support Youth and Family Services Agencies blueprint, please contact pr@infotech.com.

About Info-Tech Research Group

Info-Tech Research Group is one of the world’s leading research and advisory firms, proudly serving over 30,000 IT and HR professionals. The company produces unbiased, highly relevant research and provides advisory services to help leaders make strategic, timely, and well-informed decisions. For nearly 30 years, Info-Tech has partnered closely with teams to provide them with everything they need, from actionable tools to analyst guidance, ensuring they deliver measurable results for their organizations.

To learn more about Info-Tech’s divisions, visit McLean & Company for HR research and advisory services and SoftwareReviews for software buying insights.

Media professionals can register for unrestricted access to research across IT, HR, and software and hundreds of industry analysts through the firm’s Media Insiders program. To gain access, contact pr@infotech.com.

For information about Info-Tech Research Group or to access the latest research, visit infotech.com and connect via LinkedIn and X.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/child-welfare-agencies-challenges-with-software-selection-addressed-in-info-tech-research-groups-new-framework-302323060.html

SOURCE Info-Tech Research Group

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Technology

Lahaina art gallery turns tragedy into technology with FIRST LOOK

Published

on

By

Harte International Galleries to launch first of its kind “gallery in your pocket”.

LAHAINA, Hawaii, April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Following the devastating Maui wildfire of August 8, 2023, which destroyed its Lahaina gallery, Harte International Galleries announces the launch of FIRST LOOK, an innovative digital application designed to bring investment grade art directly to collectors. This new “gallery in your pocket” app ensures continued access to masterworks and new releases, embodying the gallery’s resilience and commitment to its clientele.

Maui art gallery turns tragedy into innovation with a fine art APP that’s a gallery in your pocket, called FIRST LOOK.

To explore the FIRST LOOK app and discover its unique offerings, please visit: www.hartegalleries.com

Reimagining Art Access 

“FIRST LOOK from Harte International Galleries is not just an app; it’s a vibrant new chapter for art enthusiasts, offering an engaging and informative way to discover masterpieces by iconic artists such as Picasso, Chagall, Miro, Salvador Dali and even Sir Anthony Hopkins at discounted prices, thanks to the elimination of traditional gallery overheads, making world-class art more accessible and enjoyable than ever before,” said Glenn Harte.

With physical rebuilding efforts in Lahaina currently stalled, Glenn and Devon Harte, owners of Harte International Galleries, developed FIRST LOOK as a direct response to the loss of their physical space. This digital platform allows the gallery to rebuild its inventory and continue serving loyal collectors without the overhead of a traditional brick-and-mortar location. The app provides a fun, informative, and accessible way to engage with fine art.

Direct Access to Masterworks

FIRST LOOK offers collectors unparalleled, immediate access to new acquisitions and exclusive releases. Members receive instant notifications on their mobile phones, complete with images, detailed descriptions, and pricing for each piece. This direct communication channel allows members to inquire about art with a single tap, connecting them directly with the gallery owners.

The app features a curated selection of renowned artists and masterworks, including:

Masterworks: Picasso, Chagall, Miro, Matisse, Rembrandt, Durer, Salvador Dali.New Releases: Sir Anthony Hopkins and famed graffiti artist Rascal.

By leveraging FIRST LOOK, Harte International Galleries continues its legacy of providing access to exceptional art, adapting to new realities while maintaining the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Further information about the app and its offerings is available at: www.hartegalleries.com 

Harte International Galleries, formerly of Lahaina, Maui has rebuilt with a digital gallery for serious collectors, called FIRST LOOK.

Known for offering museum grade art from Picasso, Chagall, Miro, Matisse, Dali, Rembrandt, Durer, Sir Anthony Hopkins and Rascal – Harte International Galleries uses innovation to create a digital gallery.

go to: www.hartegalleries.com

Media Contact:
Glenn Harte
glennharte@hartegalleries.com 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lahaina-art-gallery-turns-tragedy-into-technology-with-first-look-302749439.html

SOURCE Harte International Galleries

Continue Reading

Technology

As homes get smarter, new global research names Aiper as the world’s No.1 smart robotic pool cleaner brand

Published

on

By

New research reveals Aiper holds the position of the world’s No.1 brand of smart robotic pool cleaners based on 2026 manufacturer sales volume worldwide

SYDNEY, April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) become embedded in everyday life1, homeowners are embracing innovation more than ever. This trend is reflected in new global research which names Aiper the world’s No.1 brand of smart robotic pool cleaners*. From robot vacuums indoors to smart security, lighting and energy systems, homeowners are now seeking systems that help optimise energy use, align with cost-saving goals and reduce environmental impact, without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

According to independent research by Euromonitor International, completed in December 2025, Aiper ranked No.1 globally based on manufacturer sales volume worldwide. The findings come as smart home adoption accelerates globally, valued at more than $147 billion USD in 2025 and projected to grow rapidly over the next decade2, as households prioritise automation that improves efficiency and supports sustainability goals.

Pool care is following the same trajectory. With more than 3.1 million Australians living in homes with a swimming pool or spa3, demand is growing for intelligent, low-effort systems that can operate autonomously, efficiently and reliably, while helping households manage energy use and ongoing maintenance costs.

Aiper’s innovation-led approach was formally recognised at the 2026 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, where Euromonitor International presented Aiper with an official certificate acknowledging its global sales leadership. The recognition highlights not only the brand’s growth, but the accelerating mainstream adoption of intelligent robotics in outdoor living.

Aiper’s next innovation, the Scuba V3, is the world’s first cognitive AI-powered robotic pool cleaner. Lightweight and easy to use, it cleans 10x faster with AI vision that identifies 20+ debris types in 3 seconds. Using Cognitive AI Navium™ mode, it automatically adapts cleaning paths, suction, and frequency to each pool, delivering a true set-it-and-forget-it experience for crystal-clear water. Demonstrating how robotics and AI can support more sustainable, low-effort outdoor living while helping households better manage energy and water use.This model will be available in the Australia market during Spring season.

This growing momentum is also being recognised by Aiper’s key retail partner in Australia, Clark Rubber. “At Clark Rubber, we’re seeing strong growth in demand for smarter, more efficient pool care solutions as Australian households look to reduce maintenance time, energy use and overall costs. Aiper’s global recognition reflects the increasing role that innovation and intelligent technology are playing in outdoor living. As a key retail partner, we’re excited to bring these advanced solutions to Australian consumers and support the shift toward more sustainable, low-effort pool ownership.” said Anthony Grice, CEO Clark Rubber.

For Australian households, long swimming seasons, outdoor lifestyles, and rising energy costs make smart, efficient systems a practical necessity. Aiper’s global recognition marks a turning point for smart outdoor living, where advanced robotics and AI are increasingly powerful, accessible, and sustainable, shaping the way modern homes evolve. For more information, visit https://aiper.com/au/home

Research and Citations

https://hai.stanford.edu/ai-index/2025-ai-index-report  https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/smart-home-market-101900https://www.roymorgan.com/findings/9311-australian-swimming-pool-ownership-march-2023

About Aiper

Aiper is the global pioneer of cordless robotic pool cleaning technology and a leader in smart yard product solutions. Aiper empowers homeowners to transform their backyards into a personal vacation retreat with the help of innovative, smarter, and greener product solutions. Aiper has been recognised as a CES Innovation Awards honouree in 2023, 2024, and 2025, underscoring its commitment to pioneering smart yard solutions.

*Aiper is the No.1 brand of smart robotic pool cleaner in the world in terms of sales volume.

Source: Euromonitor International Co., Ltd., in terms of 2025 manufacturer sales volume (units) in the world. Smart robotic pool cleaner is
defined as: intelligent service robots integrating mechanical, electronic, software algorithm and sensor technologies. They autonomously or
with minimal human intervention perform pool cleaning and maintenance tasks, typically featuring smart navigation, path planning, and
multiple cleaning modes. Research completed in 2026/3.

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/as-homes-get-smarter-new-global-research-names-aiper-as-the-worlds-no1-smart-robotic-pool-cleaner-brand-302748601.html

SOURCE Aiper

Continue Reading

Technology

Slip And Fall Vs Premises Liability Explained By HelloNation Featuring Personal Injury Attorney Joe Stanley

Published

on

By

The article clarifies how property owner responsibility and legal negligence affect injury claims under New York law.

WATERTOWN, N.Y., April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — What is the difference between slip and fall incidents and premises liability when someone is injured on another person’s property? The answer is addressed in a HelloNation article featuring insights from Joe Stanley of Stanley Law Offices LLP in Watertown, New York.

The HelloNation article explains that, while slip-and-fall and premises liability are often used interchangeably, they are not the same under New York law. A slip and fall refers to the actual event in which a person slips, trips, or falls due to a condition on a property. Premises liability, however, is the legal framework used to determine whether a property owner is responsible for an injury. This distinction is important because not every slip-and-fall incident results in a valid injury claim.

According to the article, property owner responsibility in Watertown NY, depends on whether the owner knew or should have known about a hazardous condition. New York law requires property owners to maintain safe premises and to warn visitors about known dangers. This duty applies broadly to commercial properties, rental units, and private homes that welcome guests. The article notes that hazards such as wet floors, icy walkways, or poor lighting may result in premises liability if they are not addressed in a reasonable time.

The article further emphasizes that legal negligence is the key factor in determining liability. Courts evaluating injury claims consider whether a property owner took reasonable steps to inspect and maintain the property. This includes reviewing maintenance practices, prior complaints, and the foreseeability of the risk. If a hazard appeared suddenly and the property owner had no reasonable opportunity to correct it, premises liability may not apply, even if a slip and fall occurred.

The HelloNation article also highlights how property owner responsibility extends to regular inspections, timely repairs, and proper warning signs. In Watertown NY, failing to clear snow or ice, ignoring spills, or neglecting adequate lighting can contribute to legal negligence. At the same time, the article explains that property owners who actively maintain their premises and provide clear warnings are less likely to face liability under New York law.

For individuals pursuing injury claims, understanding the distinction between slip-and-fall incidents and premises liability is essential. The article advises that documenting the scene, taking photographs, and seeking prompt medical attention can help support a claim. These steps are important in establishing whether legal negligence played a role and whether the property owner’s responsibility can be demonstrated.

The article also explains that not all accidents meet the legal threshold for premises liability. A slip and fall caused by an unexpected personal item or hazard that could not have been anticipated may not result in a valid claim. This reinforces the importance of evaluating each case based on the facts and the standards set by New York law.

By clarifying these distinctions, the HelloNation article provides readers in Watertown NY with practical guidance on how slip and fall incidents are evaluated within the broader concept of premises liability. Understanding how legal negligence and property owner responsibility are applied can help individuals better navigate injury claims and make informed decisions after an accident.

Slip and Fall vs. Premises Liability in Watertown, NY features insights from Joe Stanley, an attorney in Watertown, New York, on HelloNation.

About HelloNation
HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative “edvertising” approach that blends educational content with storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven, good-news articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/slip-and-fall-vs-premises-liability-explained-by-hellonation-featuring-personal-injury-attorney-joe-stanley-302749443.html

SOURCE HelloNation

Continue Reading

Trending