CSD Launches New Website
The Department of Community Services and Development (CSD) today announced the launch of its new public website: www.csd.ca.gov. The new website includes easy navigation, new interactive features, and new ways to connect in order to make it easier for the public to access useful information, such as finding out if they may be eligible for services or finding a local provider that offers low-income services in their area.
“As more individuals look online for guidance, it is essential for websites to provide pertinent and helpful information, and I applaud CSD for their commitment to improving customer service through their web presence to better serve the public’s needs,” said California Health and Human Services Secretary Diana S. Dooley.
“CSD’s programs help millions of low-income Californians achieve and sustain financial self-sufficiency,” said CSD Director John A. Wagner. “With the goal of making public access more useful, the Department’s new website was designed to quickly communicate who we are and how low-income Californians can access help in their area.”
CSD also introduced the Department’s Facebook and Twitter pages today, which can also be accessed from the homepage of the new website.
“We are excited to offer new opportunities where the public can communicate and interact with the Department, including new Facebook and Twitter pages,” added Director Wagner.
CSD’s website includes many new features to improve website visitors’ experience through simple navigation, interactive features and many new communication tools. Specifically, these features include:
· Easy Navigation: The website is designed for simple and quick navigation by having all necessary information available in an easy and functional format. The new format and design also allows for easier remote navigation by mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.
· Interactive Features: The website includes new interactive features to make it easier for visitors to find out if they qualify for services under the Department’s programs, and to look up services and find providers in their local area.
o Eli the Eligibility Wizard: For the first time, visitors can use an interactive calculator to find out if they may be eligible to receive services under CSD programs. The wizard allows a user to select their unique household and income information and Eli the Eligibility Wizard will immediately calculate if the data entered meets program income eligibility guidelines. If the information entered is within the guidelines, Eli directs the user to their local service provider for more information about services and how to apply.
o Statewide Service Map: This new look up feature makes finding services just one mouse click away. Through this new Service Map, all program services and contacts are listed in one place by county. For example, if a visitor selects Sacramento County on the statewide map, they will be directed to the contact information and service listings for all CSD programs in Sacramento County.
· New Ways to Connect: The website offers new email subscriptions and feedback options. The public can now sign up to receive different publications by the Department, including news releases and program specific information. A short survey is also included on the website homepage, providing an opportunity for the public to share feedback and offer suggestions for improvement specific to the website, Department programs or other categories. With the launch of the new public website, CSD is also introducing Department Facebook and Twitter pages which can be accessed from the website homepage.
