“One of the reasons we have been able to adapt the product for varied uses is because the Bowman team has allowed us to be involved in planning and testing to meet our evolving needs.”

--- Dave Eberbach, Associate Director, Iowa Institute for Community Alliance

Bowman Systems Software Suite

1. What do I need to run ServicePoint?

A broadband Internet connection and a browser.

2. What browser versions do I need to run ServicePoint?

The most recent version of Microsoft Internet Explorer or Firefox. (FireFox 3+ is recommended. Internet Explorer 7 is also supported. No additional plug-in is required.)

3. What are the different components of ServicePoint?

Please see ServicePoint's Product Overview section for detailed information.

4. How soon can my agency/ organization implement ServicePoint?

Although technically the site can be available within 48 hours, the roll out date will depend on your policy and procedure readiness, how quickly you can configure the system, and any customizations and/or conversions you may have requested.

5. Does ServicePoint utilize Secure Socket Layers encryption to protect data transmitted to and from the user?

Yes. ServicePoint utilizes commercial-grade, 128-bit encryption by VeriSign, a recognized leader in Internet security products.

6. What are the system requirements for a user?

We recommend a PC with a 2 Gigahertz or higher processor, 40GB hard drive, 512 MB RAM, and Microsoft Windows 2000 or XP.

Additional Recommendations:

  • Memory
    • Windows XP: 4Gig recommended (2 Gig minimum)
    • Windows Vista: 2Gig recommended (1 Gig minimum)
  • Monitor
    • Screen Display: 1024 by 768 (XGA)
  • Processor
    • A Dual-Core processor is recommended

7. Do the ServicePoint licensing fees cover my Internet access costs?

No. You must contract with a local or national ISP for your Internet access.

8. Will anyone else have access to my data?

No.  The data you input into the system is secured and cannot be accessed by users outside your implementation.

9. Who owns the data we put into ServicePoint?

You do.

10. What standard reports does ServicePoint generate?

HUD annual report, statistical reports, service transaction reports, referral reports, met/ unmet needs reports, cost of service reports, and more.

11. Can ServicePoint generate custom reports?

Yes. ServicePoint's ReportWriter can query the most recent data in most database fields. Additionally, the Advanced Reporting Tool (ART) offers an array of intelligent reporting options.

12. Can I convert data from a legacy database into ServicePoint?

Yes. Bowman Systems provides data conversion services on a per-project basis (additional fees may apply). We also offer an XML tool if you wish to convert the data on your own.

13. Does Bowman Systems provide training for ServicePoint?

Yes. On-site training or training in our Shreveport office is a required part of a new ServicePoint implementation.

14. What does ServicePoint use for an I & R database standard?

ServicePoint utilizes the AIRS Taxonomy by default. Other taxonomies are available.

15. Can I publish my I & R database to a public web site?

Yes. ServicePoint provides seamless integration of this data to a web site.

16. Can ServicePoint be customized to my specific needs?

Yes. Customization is available through the application or upon request of Bowman Systems. Per project fees may apply. A key feature of ServicePoint is its ability to be configured and modified by the local system administrator without custom programming from Bowman Systems. Virtually all screens, menu items, lists and reports can be customized on a system, agency, or individual basis.

17. What operating system does ServicePoint support?

ServicePoint is a web-based software application capable of running on any Internet-connected workstation using most available Web Browsers. The latest versions of either Firefox, Internet Explorer, or Chrome are recommended.

18. What database engine does ServicePoint utilize?

Microsoft SQL 2000 ServicePoint 5.0, uses a PostgreSQL database with a JAVA-based application that utilizes the Google Web Tool Kit (GWT) AJAX for communications between the application and the database.