Transparency in human services.

Abstract

Diamonds that are absolutely clearare the most valuable—so too, are departments of human services. The word transparency is derived from theLatin, transparere, meaning to appear or to become visible. Transparency has become a popular term to denote open and honest government. In human services, transparency is the desire and ability to conduct business in a clear and accountable manner. This does not mean that privacy and confidentiality are given short shrift. Rather, it means the department genuinely tries to inform the public how it works while simultaneously trying inadequate supervision. Such real time information can be invaluable to the department and the public.