The Army has released a new human resources mobile application for the Integrated Personnel and Pay System – Army (IPPS-A) that allows Soldiers to access their personnel records using a mobile phone or tablet. IPPS-A is the Army’s next generation human resources and pay system that revolutionizes the way the Army does business and brings the Total Force into the digital age.  The app provides Soldiers with the flexibility to operate on the move and is secured over a commercial network.  Adding to this ease of use, Commanders and HR professionals can access their elevated roles by using the app’s CAC authentication option, allowing them to review and approve transactions without being tied down to their desk or office.  Through the app, self-service transactions — including trouble tickets — are automated, paper-free and trackable from initiation to approval.

By Debbie Gregory

Potentia Labs, the developer of a unique interactive e-learning platform that teaches emotional wellness skills like resilience and mindfulness, has been awarded a contract by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) to create a program specifically for veterans suffering from PTSD and depression.

Potentia Labs won the Department of Veterans Affairs Industry Innovation Competition.

Potentia works via an online platform and mobile app, concentrating on positive traits, such as resilience, confidence, optimism and mindfulness.

Dustin Milner, cofounder of Potentia, said that due to their military training, veterans often have trouble attending and sticking with traditional therapy.

Many veterans who are diagnosed with PTSD have trouble acknowledging weakness. By building on veterans’ existing strengths to help them become the best version of themselves, Potentia works on every area of psychological, social, and emotional well-being and performance. Backed by science, the tool is designed to provide experiences on a daily basis, and it only takes 3 to 5 minutes a day.

The connection to veterans is personal for the company, according to Milner. Cofounder Eric Lenhardt is an Army veteran who has undergone treatment for PTSD in the past.

Potentia’s first-of-its-kind app is packed with dynamic courses created by experts to help build skills like mental toughness and emotional agility—the tools everyone needs to navigate life, work, and family.

The company aims to customize and expand the platform by mixing together gaming technology, instructional design, and expertise from psychologists.

Beginning in July, 2018, the platform will begin an 18-month trial at a California VA center.