5.2.1 Informal Assessment

Informal assessment is an ongoing case management practice, which starts during the W-2 Wisconsin Works application period and continues until the individual no longer receives W-2 services.

A comprehensive informal assessment via the WWP Wisconsin Work Programs Informal Assessment Driver Flow must be completed and submitted prior to initial W-2 placement and at each placement change.

The purpose of the informal assessment process under W-2 is to help the FEP better understand the goals and needs of the individual and their family to determine the:

Individual's ability to become employed;

Services and activities necessary for the individual to secure and maintain stable employment;

Appropriate W-2 placement of a participant;

Existence of potential disabilities or other specific limitations;

Need for further career assessment and planning;

Need for vocational evaluation/assessment; and

Need for a formal assessment of any disabilities or other employment barriers by a qualified assessing agency or individual.

Multiple approaches to informal assessment can be used, based on individual needs. Additional approaches to conducting informal assessment may include:

Automated screening and assessment tools available within the W-2 agency;

Information gathered through case management meetings;

Worksite performance evaluations;

Goal setting exercises/tools (e.g., where do you want to be in six months? Two years?, etc.); and

Experience with following through on job search and other assigned activities.