CalJOBS Modernization Project

Workforce Services Information Notice
WSIN24-16

Issued: October 23, 2024

The Employment Development Department (EDD) launched the CalJOBSSM Modernization Project in 2021 and is currently in the planning process for a new CalJOBS service contract. The following provides an update to the information previously provided in CalJOBS Modernization Project (WSIN22-41).

CalJOBS currently uses an integrated web-based portal for labor exchange, case management, and subgrant administration to support California’s workforce programs. These programs include the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Title IB and Title III Wagner-Peyser, and other federal and state workforce-related programs. CalJOBS is California’s recognized “system of record” for participant tracking and federal and state reporting for many of these programs.

The goal of the CalJOBS Modernization Project is to develop an enhanced system driven by stakeholder feedback with a focus on a customer-centric design and a user-friendly experience. The project aims to make CalJOBS more accessible to all stakeholders, customizable to the department’s needs, and equipped with robust reporting capabilities, while also better supporting the administrative and reporting requirements for both state and federal programs.

To execute the planning and implementation of a new contract, the EDD must complete the required four stages of the California Department of Technology’s (CDT) project approval process, known as the Project Approval Lifecycle (PAL). The PAL provides an in-depth analysis of the CalJOBS business requirements while ensuring clear objectives, costs, schedules, and compliance with state policies. Each stage requires the CDT’s review and approval.

Project Approval Lifecycle

Stage Estimated Completion
Stage 1: Business Analysis Fall 2021 (Completed)
Stage 2: Alternative Analysis Summer 2024 (Completed)
Stage 3: Solution Development Winter 2025
Stage 4: Project Readiness and Approval Fall 2025

Stage 1 – Business Analysis, which determines the need for the project, project objectives, the potential impact on CalJOBS users and stakeholders, and available funding sources, was completed and approved in the fall of 2021.

Stage 2 – Alternatives Analysis, which documents the general business and technical requirements of the CalJOBS system, market research methods, and solution recommendations was approved in July 2024. During this stage, a Request for Information was completed to gather insights on potential workforce solutions. The EDD collaborated extensively with both internal and external stakeholders to ensure the business requirements accurately reflected their needs. A third-party vendor was hired to engage with stakeholders from California’s Local Workforce Development Areas, community-based organizations, and EDD Field Divisions.

Stage 3 – Solution Analysis, which includes documenting detailed business and technical requirements, developing project plans, and primary and ancillary procurements, is currently in progress. Additionally, the EDD conducted a survey for job seekers, employers, and training providers to gather further insights on the CalJOBS system. The EDD will release the solution Request for Proposal once Stage 3 is approved.

Stage 4 – Project Readiness and Approval, includes selecting a vendor, establishing timelines and implementation plans for project execution, and collecting final approvals. The EDD will publish an announcement of the contract award. Stage 4 is expected to be completed by Fall 2025.

Once all four PAL stages are completed and approved, the EDD will transition from the planning phase to project execution with an estimated start date in fall 2025.

For more information about this project, contact the CalJOBS Project Unit at CalJOBSProject@edd.ca.gov.

/s/ KIMBERLEE MEYER, Chief
Central Office Workforce Services Division