Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
CAPPS - Report to the 83rd Legislature

Appendix C: CAPPS Agencies’ Testimonials

Robert Chapa
Manager, Budget and Internal Accounting
Comptroller of Public Accounts

We had a very successful implementation in July 2012. Having used the PeopleSoft-based ISAS system since the late 1990s, it was a smooth transition to the PeopleSoft-based CAPPS. It’s basically the same being on CAPPS as it is on ISAS, but with a lot more functionality. And the merging of data systems was very transparent to our users.

It’s been a very successful transition to the new system, and the users agree. We went live and we didn’t miss a beat.

We now have portal access – something we’ve wanted for a long time – that allows us to post information on the system without having to go through emails or communicate data announcements.

On the old system, the data we ran for a report was a day old. With this system the data we’re using is near-real-time, which means when you run a report you’re getting data that is almost simultaneously up to date. That’s very beneficial, especially when you’re facing deadlines and you’ve got to make some tough decisions on funding scenarios or projects or priorities. With CAPPS, you know you’re getting data that’s very, very current. That’s a very big plus for us.

The ability to share information is also valuable. We can share resources and information with other agencies to get their perspective, and it’s a great benefit to everybody because we have an idea of what’s going on with a report or process.

The User Productivity Kit (UPK) is a tutorial system allowing staff to browse various features and modules. This is especially helpful for new staff to have 24/7 access to an online tutorial. We found it very helpful.