Consumer Reports
Geographic Solutions' Consumer Report System, our training provider information software, provides job seekers with a way to compare training providers and training programs. It can be used as a stand-alone module or as part of the Virtual OneStop and Virtual LMI suites of workforce solutions. The system design is easily configured to reside on existing local workforce Web sites.
The Consumer Report System (CRS) module design specifically meets the requirements of the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and the Wagner-Peyser Act. Our CRS solution offers education and training information, detailing WIA approved providers and performance standing, to college administrators, job seekers, and employers.
The system relies on a dynamic, Web-based environment to help make the application user-friendly. Providers can access and enter their own training and education data with an easy-to-use secured interface.
CRS also helps job seekers collect and compare the performance of training providers and programs, as well as access quality consumer information. Providers can apply for WIA certification, in addition to entering and maintaining their own data.
Advantages of the Consumer Report System for job seekers and providers include:
- Ability to compare similar programs at the same school
- Ability to compare different programs at the same school
- Ability to compare the same program from two colleges
- Ability to compare different programs at different colleges
- Ability to view provider WIA eligibility and the programs offered
- Providers can independently create and maintain their information
The Consumer Report System data is stored in the structure of America's Labor Market Information System (ALMIS) database. The data includes state lists of performance/cost information relating to eligible providers of training services, as described in section 122 of WIA. This includes the institution's completion rate, placements, job retention, and earning gains for each program.