SETN Data Tune-Ups

This page provides a centralized home for Southeast Tennessee’s monthly Data Tune-Ups—quick, bite-size training tidbits designed to strengthen data quality, build user confidence, and support better outcomes for the clients we serve. Whether you're an HMIS user, agency administrator, or front-line staff member, these resources offer friendly, supportive guidance to help you stay current with best practices, reduce errors, and prepare for upcoming system and HUD updates.

Each Tune-Up includes a short PowerPoint and other relevant tools that make it easy to learn, apply, and share important data practices across your agency. Explore the materials below to enhance your skills and help improve the accuracy, consistency, and effectiveness of HMIS data throughout the SETN region.

SE TN Data Tune-Up: HMIS Best Practices (December 2025)

This training provides an overview of HMIS best practices designed to strengthen data quality, support high-performing agencies, and clarify expectations for all HMIS-participating organizations. Defines the role of Data Champions and explains why dedicated data leadership is essential for improving data accuracy, consistency, and overall system performance. Clarifies what a Data Champion is not , helping agencies set appropriate expectations and avoid assigning unrelated dut

Nov 18

SE TN Data Tune-Up: HMIS Privacy & Security (October 2025)

This training provides an overview of required privacy, security, and confidentiality practices for all HMIS-participating agencies and end users. Defines privacy, security, and confidentiality and explains why each is essential for protecting client information in HMIS. Outlines responsibilities of the HMIS Lead Agency and Partner Agencies, including required agreements, posted notices, internal procedures, and annual training compliance. Details end-user responsibilities su

Oct 13

SE TN Data Tune-Up: FY 2026 HMIS Data Standard Updates (September 2025)

This training provides an overview of the upcoming FY 2026 HMIS Data Standards changes and how they will affect data entry, reporting, and local workflows. Highlights what HMIS Data Standards are and summarizes the updates expected for FY 2026. Explains why HUD is making these changes and what is still pending until the FY 2026 HMIS Data Dictionary is officially released. Clarifies that SE TN will continue collecting Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation locally, with guidan

Sep 8

SETN Data Tune-Up: Client Search & Duplicate Management (August 2025)

This training focuses on searching for clients and managing duplicate records in HMIS. Outlines best practices for client searches, emphasizing searching at least three times before creating a new record. Demonstrates how to identify duplicates through examples like spelling variations, nicknames, name changes, transposed data, and incomplete SSNs. Provides examples of common entry errors and how to avoid them. Offers step-by-step guidance on submitting support tickets, deter

Aug 11

SETN Data Tune-Up: Annual & Update Assessments (July 2025)

This month’s topic dives into Annual and Update Assessments within HMIS. Explains what these assessments are, why they’re required, who completes them, and when/how to conduct them. Walks through accessing and using the assessment tool, including navigating search results. Highlights best practices for keeping assessments timely and accurate.

Jul 15