HMIS Essentials: Data, Quality & Impact

This course lays the groundwork for understanding the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and why it’s a critical tool in homelessness services. Through practical guidance and interactive activities, you’ll learn how HMIS shapes outcomes and the role you play in ensuring high-quality data.

Updated September 9, 2025

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This course lays the groundwork for understanding the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and why it’s a critical tool in homelessness services. More than just a data entry platform, HMIS is the engine that drives funding decisions, measures program performance, and tells the story of how communities are addressing homelessness.

Through practical guidance and interactive activities, you’ll learn not only how HMIS functions but also why your role matters. By the end of the course, you’ll understand how accurate, consistent data contributes to better outcomes for individuals, stronger systems for communities, and greater accountability across the homelessness response.

What You’ll Learn

  • What HMIS is and how it functions in homelessness services
  • Why accurate data collection and entry matter for your community
  • Your role and responsibilities in maintaining data quality
  • A guided system tour to build confidence navigating HMIS
  • An interactive glossary of common HMIS terms and concepts

Course Content

Section 1: Getting Started with HMIS
What is HMIS?
Why HMIS Matters to Homeless Services
How Communities Use HMIS Data
Section 2: Your Role in Data Quality
The Importance of Accurate Data Entry
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Responsibilities of Frontline Staff vs. Agency Leadership
Section 3: Navigating the System
System Tour – Logging In, Layout, and Key Features
Searching for and Viewing Client Records
Entering and Updating Information
Section 4: Building your HMIS Vocabulary
Using the Interactive Glossary
Key HMIS Terms You’ll Encounter Every Day
HUD Standards, Acronyms, and Jargon Busters
Section 5: Pulling It All Together
HMIS in Action – Real-World Scenarios
Best Practices for Everyday Use
HMIS Foundations Certification