Safety Net and Confidentiality Institute want programs to make fully informed decisions about which database best suits the specific needs of the program. While we do not endorse nor veto any database product, we do offer technical assistance about the pros and cons of a particular database when used to manage survivor information.  

Some years ago, we invited database vendors to complete a detailed 7-page questionnaire about their databases. The topics in the questionnaire included (1) customization, (2) privacy and safety, (3) support, (4) data retention, (5) ownership and control, (6) reports and report designer, (7) access to data, (8) data storage methods, and (9) company history and standard contract terms. 

Since we first shared this information, some vendors have changed their practices, and new vendors have entered the marketplace. In the interest of not providing outdated information, and because the presentation of specific vendor information was sometimes misunderstood as an endorsement of particular vendors, we have taken down the old interviews and questionnaires. Please stay tuned for updated content.

Please watch this Introduction to Database Features video to understand the questions asked, and key considerations when selecting a database.