America's Job Link Alliance Benefits

Designed to serve as the backbone for states' one-stop centers, the America's Job Link systems are capable of linking multiple state agencies and 70 federally funded workforce programs. The system allows job seekers to venture into a one-stop center, interact with a state agency's case manager and receive services. Job seekers can also use any computer with internet access to file for unemployment, view job postings or post their own resume on-line. Similarly, employers may post job orders on-line, and check on the status of unemployment claims filed against them or taxes thy may owe. Case management features allow state employees and their partners to manage the accounts of both employers and job seekers. Career information allows employers and job seekers to become aware of employment trends that might impact their employment decisions.

Perhaps the membership benefit that will provide the greatest return on investment is the preferred rates and prices the Alliance will negotiate with vendors. By taking advantage of economics of scale, the Alliance will negotiate the lowest possible rates for goods and services offered by vendors. This will result in reduced rates from vendors that provide management and consulting services, as well as technology equipment.

• Share the lessons learned and best practices gained from their respective efforts to plan, implement, manage and improve their workforce development initiatives and information technology systems
  
• Participate, when mutually beneficial, in the development, maintenance and enhancement of information technology systems, as well as share previously designed and built applications as appropriate to maximize information technology investments and minimize deployment efforts.
  
• Share marketing materials produced to educate employers, job seekers, staff and legislators about the availability and capability of initiatives and information technology systems.
  
• Share training materials produced to educate staff and customers on how to gain maximum benefit from new initiatives and information technology systems.
  
• Combine purchasing power to receive preferred customers discounts from various workforce development partners and suppliers who provide value-added services.