5 Ways Technology Can Help PHAs Overcome Staffing Shortages: Doing More With Less

Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) across the country are facing a daunting challenge: staffing shortages. With limited budgets and high workloads, it's becoming increasingly difficult to attract and retain qualified personnel. However, technology offers a lifeline, empowering PHAs to do more with less. Here are five ways technology can alleviate staffing pressures and streamline operations:

1. Automate Repetitive Tasks:

• Many PHA processes, such as income verification, applicant screening, and rent calculation are repetitive and time-consuming. By implementing automation tools, PHAs can free up staff to focus on higher-value activities, such as resident support and program development.
   
• Robotic Process Automation (RPA) can handle routine tasks like data entry, document processing, and report generation, significantly reducing the manual workload on your team.

2. Better Streamline Communication and Collaboration:

• Clear and efficient communication is essential for effective PHA operations. Technology can help facilitate communication between staff, residents, and stakeholders through various channels like email, messaging apps, and online portals.
   
• Cloud-based collaboration tools enable current document sharing, project management, and virtual meetings, fostering seamless teamwork even with remote or distributed staff.

3. Leverage Data-Driven Insights:

• Data can offer a goldmine of insights that helps inform decision-making and optimize resource allocation. Technology can help PHAs collect, analyze, and visualize data to identify trends, patterns, and potential areas for improvement.
   
• ePredictive analytics can even forecast future needs and help PHAs proactively address challenges before they escalate.

4. Enhance Resident Self-Service:

• Empowering residents to access information and complete tasks online can significantly reduce the workload on PHA staff. Online portals allow residents to submit applications, update their information, pay rent, and request maintenance – all without needing direct staff assistance.
   
• Chatbots and virtual assistants can provide instant answers to common questions, further reducing the burden on staff and improving resident satisfaction.

5. Optimize Tenant Screening and Verification:

• Screening and verifying applicants is a critical but often laborious task for PHAs. By leveraging technology solutions like Equifax's income and employment verification tools and tenant screening solutions, you can streamline operational processes, focus on the delivery of equitable and efficient decisions, and promote compliance with policy requirements.

By embracing technology as a strategic partner, PHAs can overcome staffing shortages, improve operational efficiency, and ultimately better serve their communities. While the initial investment in technology may seem daunting, the long-term benefits far outweigh the costs.

Equifax is Here to Help

At Equifax, we understand the unique challenges faced by PHAs. Our suite of solutions, including The Work Number® for income verification and Smart Screen™ for tenant screening, are designed to empower your agency and alleviate staffing pressures.

Don't let staffing shortages hold you back. Embrace technology and unlock the full potential of your PHA!

Contact Us to Learn More!