DTS EZ System

The DTS EZ System is comprised of three components: an interactive web-based support tool, "Survival Workshops" and implementation support materials. The objective of this comprehensive learning system is to "de-mystify" DTS, simplify use of DTS and improve productivity by offering an engaging, easy-to-use self-help tool, available 24/7.

DTS EZ was developed for the ARNG. Given the force is spread across 3200 communities and that many soldiers may only access the DTS system once or twice a year, it became apparent that contemporary adult learning methods must be incorporated into the web-based tool. A learning map approach, coupled with an easy to maneuver, intuitive and interactive web tool was created.

To maximize learning effectiveness, the web tool is supported by an overview workshop of the tool, with some hands-on exercises to familiarize learners with it, create some "buy-in" and to demonstrate how easy and helpful the tool is.

Finally, a "campaign" was developed to help "sell" the benefits of DTS EZ to the AO’s and Travelers, promote interest and use of the new web-based tool and frankly to "market" the benefits of the DTS EZ to offset the current experience of it being cumbersome, complex and inflexible.

DTS EZ Interactive web-based Support Tool

The site offers 2 colorful "maps", depicting the most commonly used functions of DTS for the AO and for the Traveler. For the AO, there are 9 key functions and for the Traveler, there are 8. Each of these functions is a "hot spot" which then branches to a few quick questions about what exactly they need help with. From there, the site links to the appropriate PDF files that can be referenced or easily printed out.

Additional highlights of the web tool include: 

• Over 180 PDF’s with step-by-step instructions, including screen shots from the DTS for specific reference.
• Web Site Tutorial to provide a quick overview of the web site 
• Help Document Index for quick access to specific documents for those more familiar with DTS. These documents include topics such as:
  • Policy Overview
  • AO Responsibilities
  • Transportation
  • Lodging
  • M &IE
  • Reimbursable Expenses
  • Additional Policies
  • After the Trip
  • AO Travel Policy Review
  • Link to DTS site

DTS Survival Workshops for the AO and for the Traveler 

The Workshops were created to provide a fun and interactive "tour" of the web-based tool itself and to help "bring to life" the new DTS EZ web-based tool, "live" for many of the practical exercises. During the workshop, DTS certificates enable the facilitator to access DTS to demonstrate several real time applications. A variety of exercises in the workshops include: 

• Facilitator lead discussions
• Hands-on demonstrations
• Small group activities

The workshop materials include a "DTSEZ Quick Start Guide" for the AO and for the Travelers, with some of the most commonly requested information, and a summary of the Travel Policies. This reference guide compliments the web-based tool.

The Workshop also includes a comprehensive, easy-to-use, step-by-step Facilitator’s Guide for conducting the workshops. The Facilitator’s Guide includes suggested schedule, set up requirements, and icons to aid in the presentation of the materials and exercises. These workshops can be implemented in a classroom setting, or virtually via VTC or a webinar.

TCI can conduct the training and/or conduct a 1 day Train-the-Trainer workshop for those who wish to conduct the workshops themselves.

Materials include:

• Facilitator Guide
• 32 X 42 inch full-color wall charts of the AO Map and the Traveler Map for reference
• AO Quick Start Guide
• Traveler Quick Start Guide
• 22 X 28 inch colorful posters to display in key locations, announcing DTS EZ

DTS EZ Marketing/Implementation Materials

To promote DTS EZ and encourage use, the DTS EZ System offers a "campaign" to launch the program and sustain interest.

The components of the campaign include:

• 2 email "blasts" with text to announce the new tool and/or the Workshops
• Email signatures
• Web banners
• Press releases
• 22 X 28 inch colorful posters to display in key locations
• Postcards announcing DTS EZ
• Business cards to provide local DTS EZ support contact