Social Work Meetup: Workflows, with Aisling Jennings

Workflows can be an impactful visualization of a process, a road map, and a way to identify bottlenecks, system failures, and breaks in support. This tool can make underused and complex processes accessible- especially when the process has little to no framework to start with. Developing workflows is a collaborative effort; the best workflows are usable by all members of a team, regardless of role. Workflows are intended to evolve over time as we identify issues in the system and improve on the process.

The Mental Health Sentencing Alternative in Washington State is incredibly underused for a variety of reasons. There is not a codified process (unlike other sentencing alternatives) and my office struggled to get buy in with probation officers and service providers. Because of the lack of clear pathways, attorneys were hesitant to use the MHSA. Through trial and error, our office worked with our health department (WCHCS) to build framework for the process. This year, our office has been meeting with other jurisdictions to share what is working or not working and why in our respective systems. While the MHSA process still has a long way to go, the workflows are a significant step towards a more accessible alternative.

Come learn about this specific workflow development and discuss how to extrapolate out the development of workflows to address the bottlenecks in your office!