The intent of the NCCD case management system is twofold: (1) provide workers with simple, objective, and reliable tools with which to make the best possible decisions for individual cases; and (2) provide administrators with information for improved planning, budgeting, and resource allocation. Major components of the case management process include actuarial risk assessment instruments, family needs assessment instruments, comprehensive case planning and management procedures, clear standards for case worker intervention based on risk assessment, an agency budgeting and resource allocation system, and a management information system. The NCCD conducted a risk assessment study in Michigan using a survey form containing more than 160 items on the child, household, family circumstances, and service intervention. Survey findings provided a basis for Michigan's case management process which will base service interventions on actuarial risk and family needs. Workload accounting is also a key feature of Michigan's case management system. When fully implemented, the system should improve decisionmaking and optimize the use of limited resources. 6 references, 1 endnote, 2 tables, and 4 figures