Compiling the APR Using
Packaged Data Management
Software: Blumen
SAEOPP Priority 1 Training
PY 2010
Presenter
Elizabeth C. Retamozo, Executive Director
NOSOTROS Education Center
www.nosotrosedu.org
Phone: 469-450-7137
Email:
eretamozo@nosotrosedu.org
eretamozo@tx.rr.com
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Learning Objectives
• Review the pros and cons of using packaged data
management software programs
• Receive an overview of the features of the Blumen
database program
• Learn the initial steps to enter participant data into
the Blumen database to compile APR Section III for
SSS Projects; Section II for McNair Projects; and
Section II, III, & IV for EOC/TS
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Pros of Packaged Database Program
• Specifically developed & designed for TRIO
Programs and APRs
• Does not require experience or knowledge of
database programming
• Investment (time & money) required tends to be
relatively cheap as the cost of development can be
spread over a large number of users
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Pros of Packaged Database Program
• “Powerful” as the revenues from a large numbers
of users means that a lot of resources can be
applied to its development
• Experienced technical support to trouble shoot and
customize reports/features
• Vendor monitors ED & revises the APR
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Cons of Packaged Database Program
• Can be complex and include features that you
might never use
• Tends to be a compromise because it is designed
for many different types of users
• May take a long time to learn properly
 Outsourcing leaves you at the “mercy” of the
vendor
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Blumen Database Features
AUTOMATED
• Self-built drop-down lists
• Incremental search & auto-fill fields
• Graphical navigation bar to view data
• Backup wizard reminds you to make backups
• “Auto Save” saves all data instantaneously
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Blumen Database Features
POWERFUL
• Creates Customized Activities and Services
• Screen-level password security
• Automated attendance log for activities or contacts
• Time clock feature
• Time & Effort Staff Reports
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Blumen Database Features
FLEXIBILITY
• Over 125 statistical and management reports
• Creates and saves your own customized reports
• Saves reports in HTML format to email to others
• Searches data by any criteria
• Views and prints Monthly/Quarterly/Annual reports
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Blumen Database Features
NETWORK READY
• Real-time multi-user updating saves time
• User-specific preferences
• “Smart” conflict resolution when the same data is
being changed by more than one user at the same
time
• Remote access for read-only viewing OR data
entry for consolidation later at main office
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Blumen Database Features
SUPPORT
• One Year FREE Technical Support
• Unlimited Calls to Technical Support
• Unlimited e-mail support
• Updates/Upgrades at discounted prices
• Affordable Annual Technical Support Plan
• On-site and On-line Training
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SSS APR - Blumen
 Section III – Quick Edit, Verify Data, Verify with
Prior Year APR Excel
 Participant APR Detail Report
 Section III Spreadsheet Report
 Creating Excel File to Upload to ED Website
 Program Objectives Summary & Detail Reports
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McNair APR - Blumen
 Section II – Quick Edit & Verify Data
 Participant APR Detail Report
 Creates Excel File to Upload on ED Website
 Program Objectives Summary & Detail Reports
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TS/EOC APR - Blumen
 Section II – Re-calculate
 Section III – Re-calculate
 Section IV - Verify Data
 Program Objectives Summary & Detail Reports
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For More Information:
COMPANSOL
Blumen Database Program
P.O. Box 821143
Houston, Texas 77282
Phone: (281) 597-8238
Fax: (281) 597-8258
E-mail: blumen@compansol.com
Web Site: www.compansol.com
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Questions & Answers
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