DOCUSHARE FAQ

What is DocuShare?  [TOP]
DocuShare is a search engine and Internet database of documents such as policies, procedures, manuals, etc. from COA-approved self-studies of Alliance member organizations. Users may search this database online by subject, title, or COA standard number and view, print, or download documents. To use DocuShare, you must first register with the Severson Center.

How can DocuShare help me?  [TOP]
DocuShare can help you and your organization avoid re-inventing the wheel when:

• Starting the accreditation process
• Searching for program information from similar organizations
• Updating policy and procedure manuals
• Benchmarking organization policies and procedures against other COA accredited organizations

What is in DocuShare?  [TOP]
The typical document in DocuShare is a policy or procedure from a COA approved self-study. Examples of the types of documents found in DocuShare include:

• Client Rights Policies
• Customer Satisfaction Forms
• Development Plans
• HIPAA-Compliant Policies
• Job Descriptions
• Personnel Policies
• Performance Appraisal Forms
• Quality Improvement Policies
• Safety Policies

Why can’t I view some of the documents?  [TOP]
In addition to sample documents from member agencies, DocuShare also contains copyright protected articles where only the title is viewable. Clicking on the title of these articles will give you a message stating that you are not authorized to view them. These documents are not fully accessible for viewing electronically, downloading or printing. Single paper copies of these articles may be requested by title, for personal use, from the Severson Center at: severson@alliance1.org.
 
How do I view, download or print documents in DocuShare?  [TOP]

• View a document: Click on the title of document.
• Download a document: For PDFs click on the “Save a copy” icon. You may also click on “File” and then “Save As” to save any document to your computer hard drive.
• Print a document: Click on your printer icon, or click on “File” and then “Print.”

Will DocuShare link me to other documents on the Internet?  [TOP]
Yes, DocuShare contains links to documents and web sites on the Internet. Titles with a globe on the left side are URLs and clicking on the title will open a new window displaying the web page or document at that URL.

What is a “ready-to-click” search? [TOP]
A “ready-to-click” search is an automatic search prepared by the librarians on frequently-asked-for topics such as HIPAA-compliant policies or performance appraisal forms. Open the folder in Level A called ““ready to click” searches on hot topics” and click on the desired search title to view results. The librarians add new searches to this folder on a frequent basis, so check back often.

What if I can’t find what I’m looking for in DocuShare? [TOP]
DocuShare represents only a small portion of the library collection that is available at no charge to Alliance members, so be sure to contact the librarians if you can’t find what you’re looking for. The Severson Center Librarians are happy to help you with any reference requests having to do with your daily, operational responsibilities for your agency. To contact the Severson Librarians, complete this request form.
 

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 TIPS TO SEARCH DOCUSHARE

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