Highlight Story
We want to recognize real success stories from our colleagues to show what’s possible and celebrate their accomplishments.
Today, we’re highlighting Colin Ryan and the Department of Corrections (DOC) for modernizing how domestic violence treatment intake is handled across Iowa’s community corrections districts. What started as a Lean event turned into a major technology improvement that is now supporting statewide change.
Agency: DOC – Department of Corrections
Creator: Colin Ryan
Project: Domestic Violence Program Intake Modernization
Details: In February 2024, DOC brought together all eight community corrections districts to review and align their domestic violence program processes. Right away, the group saw big differences in how each district worked, along with outdated processes that still depended on mailing forms and in‑person meetings.
A key opportunity came up: make it easier and faster for clients to register for domestic violence treatment. The goal was to allow someone to sign up immediately, even from the courtroom, by scanning a QR code or clicking a link. This would reduce delays, increase access to treatment, and help lower repeat offenses.
To test the idea, Colin’s district secured a grant to use Qualtrics and built a successful proof of concept. Staff and clients across three districts said it made the enrollment process much faster and simpler. However, a grant-funded solution was not a long-term option for a statewide rollout.
When Iowa launched its statewide Qualtrics contract, Colin and his team partnered with Qualtrics to rebuild the form on the new platform. This ensured strong data security, better workflows, and a smooth transition. Qualtrics even helped keep the existing enrollment link working during the changeover to avoid any disruption. The updated pilot is already working well and is ready to expand statewide.
Impact: Once fully implemented, the new system will save staff time, remove enrollment barriers, and help clients access treatment sooner. This supports future victims and strengthens accountability across Iowa’s corrections system.
Great job Colin and DOC.