DFPS Plan Emphasizes Case Management, AI and Data Governance

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services’ (DFPS) newest strategic plan points to technology modernization, data governance and system integration as key pieces of the agency’s work through fiscal years 2027-2031.

The plan, approved June 1 by Commissioner Audrey O’Neill, outlines five goals focused on client-centered services, workforce recruitment, effective operations, community relations and the continued transition to Community-Based Care, the state’s model for shifting foster-care case management and service coordination to local contractors.

DFPS said the plan is intended to strengthen services, support its workforce, modernize operations and advance a community-driven system of care for children, families and vulnerable adults across Texas.

The clearest technology direction appears under the agency’s goal for effective and efficient operations, which calls for continuous improvement to strengthen agency systems and services. DFPS said it plans to modernize contracting and procurement practices by centralizing tracking and management of contract and procurement activities, a step the agency tied to provider oversight, transparency and operational effectiveness.

The plan also calls for strengthened data governance across DFPS to support accurate, secure and responsible data use. DFPS said the framework is intended to inform policy, improve accountability and support decision-making.

AI is named directly in the same goal. DFPS said it will advance a secure, resilient and adaptable technology environment by integrating emerging technologies such as AI tools, strengthening cybersecurity safeguards, mitigating operational risk and ensuring continuity of operations.

Case management modernization is another focus. The plan calls for a modernized case management system developed with internal stakeholders, Single Source Continuum Contractors and other external partners to improve data and information sharing and support client outcomes. DFPS also said it will modernize Statewide Intake operations through business process redesign, continuous program evaluation and case management system improvements.

DFPS also plans to implement the Search Engine for Multi-Agency Reportable Conduct, a centralized system intended to support cross-agency background checks and identify individuals in Texas with a history of abuse, neglect, exploitation or misconduct.

Technology also appears in the agency’s review of redundancies and impediments. DFPS lists technology modernization, automation and data quality improvements among the areas it will continue to evaluate through executive leadership review, stakeholder engagement, operational performance monitoring and legislative planning.

The shift to Community-Based Care is another area where DFPS connects technology and operations. DFPS said improved data sharing, standardized workflows and after-action reviews will help reduce duplication and support timely, informed decision-making as the agency works with community partners and Single Source Continuum Contractors.

The plan’s customer service section also highlights digital access points. Statewide Intake accepts reports through the Texas Abuse Hotline website for non-urgent situations, offering an online alternative intended to reduce hotline call volume. DFPS reported that more than 400 people completed its Internet Reporting survey in the last quarter of fiscal 2025 and that the survey has collected more than 12,400 responses since it was first offered.

Cybersecurity and AI training remain compliance areas in the plan. DFPS includes certifications saying the agency has complied with required cybersecurity training and AI training under state law.