NATIONAL INCIDENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM 
NATIONAL STANDARD CURRICULUM TRAINING DEVELOPMENT GUIDANCE

Introduction

In Homeland Security Presidential Directive (HSPD-5), Management of Domestic Incidents, the President directed 
the Secretary of Homeland Security to develop and administer a National Incident Management System (NIMS).  
On March 1, 2004, Secretary Ridge issued the NIMS to provide a comprehensive national approach to incident 
management, applicable to all jurisdictional levels across functional disciplines.  The NIMS provides a consistent 
nationwide approach for federal, state, tribal and local governments to work effectively and efficiently together to 
prepare for, prevent, respond to and recover from domestic incidents, regardless of cause, size, or complexity.

The NIMS establishes standard incident management processes, protocols and procedures so that all responders 
can work together more effectively.  NIMS components include:

*	Command and Management;
*	Preparedness;
*	Resource Management;
*	Communications and Information Management;
*	Supporting Technologies; and
*	Ongoing Management and Maintenance.

The NIMS Integration Center was established to oversee all aspects of NIMS.  This includes the development of 
NIMS-related standards and guidelines and support to guidance for incident management and responder 
organizations as they implement the system.  The Center will validate compliance with the NIMS and National 
Response Plan responsibilities, standards and requirements. 

The NIMS Integration Center through this initial draft document is coordinating the development of a National 
Standard Curriculum for NIMS.  This curriculum will be built around available federal training opportunities and 
course offerings that support NIMS implementation.  The curriculum also will serve to clarify training that is 
necessary for NIMS-compliance and streamline the training approval process for courses recognized by the 
curriculum.

Initially, the curriculum will be made up of NIMS awareness training and training to support the Incident 
Command System (ICS).  Eventually it will expand to include all NIMS training requirements including training 
established to meet national credentialing standards.  

Minimum requirements to be accomplished this year include the following:

*	Formally recognizing the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and adopting the NIMS principles and 
policies.  States, territories, tribes and local entities have established via legislation, executive orders, resolutions, or 
ordinances the formal adoption of the NIMS.

*	Completing the NIMS Awareness Course: "National Incident Management System, An Introduction" - IS 700.  
This independent study course explains the purpose, principles, key components and benefits of NIMS for all emergency 
personnel with a direct role in emergency preparedness, incident management or response.   The NIMS Integration 
Center encourages all emergency personnel with a direct role in emergency preparedness, incident command or response 
to take this course in FY05.  This course will very likely be required training in FY06.

*	Establishing a NIMS baseline by determining which NIMS requirements have been accomplished. The NIMS 
Capability Assessment Support Tool (NIMCAST) is available as a voluntary web-based self-assessment system for use 
by  states, territories, tribes and local governments to evaluate their incident response and management capabilities; 


*	Institutionalizing the use of the Incident Command System (ICS).  If the state, territorial, tribal and local entities are 
not already using ICS, they must institutionalize the use of ICS (consistent with the concepts and principles taught by 
DHS) across the entire response system.  Institutionalization is demonstrated in both the jurisdiction's policy and 
organizational/operational activities; and  

*	Establishing a timeframe and developing a strategy for full NIMS implementation.  States should be working with 
tribal and local governments to develop strategies for statewide compliance with the NIMS.

The NIMS Integration Center recognizes that many operational aspects of NIMS, including ICS training, are 
available through state, local and tribal agencies and private training vendors.  It is not necessary that the training 
requirements be met through a federal source.  This document will provide stakeholders with an evaluation 
checklist for training content, which may be used to ensure that the ICS training offered by other agencies or 
vendors meets the standard "as taught by DHS."

Emergency management/response personnel already been trained in ICS do not need retraining if their previous 
training is consistent with DHS standards (to include ICS courses managed, administered, or delivered by the 
Emergency Management Institute, the National Fire Academy, FIRESCOPE, the National Wildfire Coordinating 
Group, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Environment Protection Agency and the U.S. Coast Guard.)

One of the most common concerns of federal, state, tribal and local governments has to do with the process and 
timeframe for adopting NIMS.  NIMS compliance requirements will be phased in over time.  FY2005 will be a 
NIMS ramp-up year (see above).  Full NIMS compliance will not be required until the end of FY2006.  (Please 
note: FY06 compliance activities will be provided to State and Local governments during the August/September 
timeframe.  This document will be updated when the FY06 compliance activities are announced.)

To the maximum extent possible, federal agencies, states, territories, tribes and local entities are encouraged to 
achieve full NIMS implementation and institutionalization across the entire response spectrum.  Presently the 
Center is encouraging everyone to familiarize themselves with NIMS concepts and principles and to begin 
implementation as soon as possible.  Those federal, state, tribal and local governments as well as the private sector 
that are not already using the Incident Command System (ICS) as taught by the Department of Homeland Security 
(DHS), should begin steps to institutionalize the use of ICS across their response systems.

Concepts and Principles of NIMS Relating to ICS 

Overview:  The following concepts and principles of NIMS relating to ICS need to be addressed in ICS training 
offered by other federal agencies, state, local and tribal agencies, as well as by private vendors.  If these concepts 
and principles are addressed in non-DHS ICS training the training will meet the standards established by the 
NIMS Integration Center.  The intent of the remainder of the document is to provide stakeholders with a training 
evaluation checklist for NIMS training content.

The overwhelming majority of emergency incidents are generally handled on a daily basis by a single jurisdiction 
at the local level.  However there are important instances in which successful domestic incident management 
operations depend on the involvement of multiple jurisdictions, functional agencies and emergency responder 
disciplines.  These instances require effective and efficient coordination across the broad spectrum of 
organizations and activities.  

The ICS is one of three standardized organizational structures established by the NIMS.  The ICS defines the 
operating characteristics, interactive management components and structure of incident management and 
emergency response organizations engaged throughout the life cycle of an incident.  The other two standardized 
organizational structures outlined in the NIMS include the Multi-agency Coordination System and the Public 
Information System.

The NIMS is based on an appropriate balance of flexibility and standardization in order to provide a framework 
for interoperability and compatibility during incident operations.  

The NIMS provides a consistent, flexible and adjustable national framework within which government and private 
entities at all levels can work together to manage domestic incidents, regardless of their cause, size, location, or 
complexity.  This flexibility applies across all phases of incident management: prevention, preparedness, response, 
recovery and mitigation.

The NIMS also provides a set of standardized organizational structures - such as the ICS, multi-agency 
coordination systems and public information systems - as well as requirements for processes, procedures and 
systems to improve interoperability among jurisdictions and disciplines in various areas.


ICS in DHS - An Overview

The ICS is a management system designed to enable effective and efficient domestic incident management by 
integrating a combination of facilities, equipment, personnel, procedures and communications operating within a 
common organizational structure. Important features of ICS include:

*	Wide applicability across all emergency management disciplines
*	Used to organize both near-term and long-term field operations
*	Used for a broad spectrum of emergencies, from small to complex
*	Used by all levels of government 
*	Used by private sector and nongovernmental organizations

The Final Report of the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks upon the United States (The 9/11 Commission 
Report) supports the following key command and management components relating to the ICS:

*	Emergency response agencies nationwide should adopt the ICS.
*	When multiple agencies or multiple jurisdictions are involved in incident command, a unified command 
should be adopted.
*	The Commission strongly supports the decision that federal homeland security funding will be contingent 
upon adoption and regular use of ICS and unified command procedures.


ICS in DHS - Concepts and Principles

The core concepts and principles of the ICS as taught by DHS and as defined in the NIMS Document and 
consistent with the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) incorporate the following components:

_____	The overwhelming majority of incidents nationwide are typically handled by a single jurisdiction.  Most 
responses need go no further.  In other instances the response may rapidly expand requiring additional 
resources and operational support.  Whether for incidents which additional resources are required or are 
provided from different organizations within a single jurisdiction or outside the jurisdiction, or for 
complex incidents with state-level or national-level implications, the ICS provides a core mechanism for 
coordinated and collaborative incident management.

_____	The NIMS requires that field command and management functions be performed in accordance with a 
standard set of ICS organizations, doctrine and procedures.  However, the incident commanders generally 
retain the flexibility to modify procedures or organizational structure as necessary to accomplish the 
mission.

_____	ICS is modular and scalable and is readily adaptable to any emergency or incident to which domestic 
incident management agencies would be expected to respond.

_____	ICS has interactive management components that set the stage for effective and efficient incident 
management and emergency response.

_____	ICS establishes common terminology, standards and procedures that enable diverse organizations to work 
together effectively.

_____	ICS incorporates measurable objectives to ensure fulfillment of incident management goals.

_____	The implementation of ICS should have the least possible disruption on existing systems and processes.

_____	The ICS should be user friendly and be applicable across a wide spectrum of emergency response and 
incident management disciplines.


ICS in DHS - Management Characteristics

ICS is based on proven management characteristics.  Each contributes to the strength and efficiency of the overall 
system.  The following ICS management characteristics are taught by DHS in ICS training programs: (More 
detailed information is provided in the NIMS Document and in DHS ICS Training Materials)

_____	Common Terminology:  The ICS establishes common terminology that allows entities to work together 
across a wide variety of incident management functions and hazard scenarios.  ICS common terminology 
covers the organizational functions, resources descriptions and incident facilities.
 
_____	Modular Organization:  The ICS organizational structure develops in a top-down fashion that is based on 
the size and complexity of the incident, as well as the specifics of the hazard environment created by the 
incident.  When needed separate functional elements can be established, each of which may be further 
subdivided to enhance management and coordination.  Responsibility for the establishment and expansion 
of the ICS rests with the Incident Commander (IC), who bases these on requirements of the situation.  As 
incident complexity increases, the organization expands from top down as functional responsibilities are 
delegated.

_____	Management by Objectives:  The ICS is managed by objectives that are communicated throughout the 
entire ICS organization.  The establishment of specific, measurable objectives for various incident 
management functional activities and directing efforts to attain them is essential to a successful operation.

_____	Reliance on an Incident Action Plan:  Incident action plans (IAPs) are established for each incident 
operational period to provide overall incident objectives for both operational and support activities.

_____	Manageable Span of Control:  Within ICS, the span of control of any individual should range from three 
to seven subordinates.  The type of incident, nature of the task, hazards and safety factors and distances 
between personnel and resources all influence span-of-control.

_____	Pre-designated Incident Locations & Facilities:  Various types of operational locations and support 
facilities are established in the vicinity of the incident to accomplish a variety of purposes.  Typical pre-
designated facilities include command post, bases, camps, staging areas, mass casualty triage areas and 
others as required.

_____	Comprehensive Resource Management:  Resource management includes processes for categorizing, 
ordering, dispatching, tracking and recovering resources.  Resources are defined as personnel, teams, 
equipment, supplies and facilities available or potentially available for assignment or allocation in support 
of the operation.

_____	Integrated Communications:  Incident communications are facilitated through the development and use of 
a common communications plan and interoperable communications processes and architectures.


_____	Establishment and Transfer of Command:  The command function must be clearly established from the 
beginning of incident operations.  The agency with primary jurisdictional responsibility designates the 
individual at the scene responsible for establishing command.  Procedures must be in place to allow for a 
smooth transfer of command when applicable.

_____	Chain of Command and Unity of Command:  Chain of command refers to the orderly line of authority 
over the incident operations.  Unity of command means that every individual has a designated supervisor.  
These principles clarify reporting relationships and eliminate confusion.

_____	Unified Command:  In incidents involving multiple jurisdictions, a single jurisdiction with multi-agency 
involvement, or multiple jurisdictions with multi-agency involvement, unified command can be 
implemented.  Unified command allows agencies to work together effectively without affecting 
individual agency authority, responsibility, or accountability.

_____	Accountability: The ICS accountability principles include check-in, incident action plan, unity of 
command, span of control and resource tracking.

_____	Deployment:  Personnel and equipment should respond only when requested or when dispatched by an 
appropriate authority.

_____	Information and Intelligence Management:  The incident management organization must establish a 
process for gathering, sharing and managing incident-related information and intelligence.


ICS in DHS - Organization and Operations (Command Staff)

The ICS organization has five major functions - command, operations, planning, logistics and finance and 
administration.  A potential sixth functional area to cover the information and intelligence function can be 
established for gathering and sharing incident related information and intelligence. The following ICS organization 
and operations characteristics relevant to the command staff are taught by DHS in ICS training programs. (More 
detailed information is provided in the NIMS Document and in DHS and NWCG ICS Training Materials)

_____	Command comprises the Incident Commander (IC) and Command Staff.  Command staff positions are 
established to assign responsibility for key activities not specifically identified in the General Staff 
functional elements.  These positions may include the Public Information Officer (PIO), Safety Officer 
(SO) and the Liaison Officer (LNO), in additional to various others, as required and assigned by the IC.

_____	The command staff is responsible for overall management of the incident.  This includes Command Staff 
assignments required to support the command function.  The command function may be conducted in two 
general ways: Single Command IC and Unified Command. (Unified Command will be addressed in the 
next section)
_____	When an incident occurs within a single jurisdiction and there is no jurisdictional or functional agency 
overlap, a single IC should be designated with overall management responsibility by the appropriate 
jurisdictional authority.  (In some cases in which incident management crosses jurisdictional and/or 
functional agency boundaries, a single IC may be designated if all parties agree to such an option).  
Jurisdictions should consider pre-designating ICs in their preparedness plans.

_____	The designated IC will develop the incident objectives on which subsequent incident action planning will 
be based.  The IC will approve the Incident Action Plan (IAP) and all requests pertaining to the ordering 
of incident resources.

_____	In an incident command organization, the Command Staff consists of the IC and three special staff 
positions the PIO, the SO and the LNO. Additional positions to include Assistants and Additional 
Command Staff may be required depending on the nature and scope of the incident.  All special staff 
positions report directly to Incident Command.    

_____	Public Information Officer:  The PIO is responsible for interfacing with the public and media and/or other 
agencies with incident-related information requirements.  Only one incident PIO should be designated.  
Assistants may be assigned from other agencies or departments involved.  The IC must approve the 
release of all incident-related information.

_____	Safety Officer:  The SO monitors incident operations and advises the IC on all matters relating to 
operational safety, including the health and safety of emergency response personnel.  The ultimate 
responsibility for the safe conduct of incident management operations rests with the IC or Unified 
Command (UC) and supervisors at all levels of incident management.  The SO is, in turn, responsible to 
the IC for the set of systems and procedures necessary to ensure all on-going safety efforts.  The SO has 
emergency authority to stop and/or prevent unsafe acts during incident operations.

_____	Liaison Officer:  The LNO is the point of contact for representatives of other government agencies, 
nongovernmental organizations and/or private entities.  Representatives from assisting or cooperating 
agencies and organizations should coordinate all efforts through the LNO.  Assistants and personnel from 
other agencies or organizations involved in incident management may be assigned to the LNO to 
facilitate coordination.

_____	Assistants: In the context of large or complex incidents, Command Staff members may need one of more 
assistants to help manage workloads.  Each Command Staff member is responsible for organizing 
assistants for maximum efficiency.

_____	Additional Command Staff:  Additional Command Staff may also be necessary depending on the nature 
and location(s) of the incident.  


ICS in DHS - Organization and Operations (Unified Command)

Due to the unique characteristics of Unified Command (UC) these elements will be listed under a separate heading 
in this document.  The following ICS organization and operations characteristics relevant to UC are taught by 
DHS in ICS training programs.  (More detailed information is provided in the NIMS Document and in DHS and 
NWCG ICS Training Materials)

_____	UC is an important element in multi-jurisdictional or multi-agency domestic incident management.  It 
provides guidelines to enable agencies with different legal, geographic and functional responsibilities to 
coordinate, plan and interact effectively.  As the team, UC overcomes much of the inefficiency and 
duplication of effort that can occur when agencies from different functional and geographic jurisdictions, 
or agencies at different levels of government, operate without a common system or organizational 
framework.

_____	All agencies with jurisdictional authority can participate in the UC structure.  Agencies with functional 
responsibility for any or all aspects of an incident can participate in the UC structure.  Agencies that 
provide specific resource support can participate in the UC structure.  Representatives from these 
agencies can then contribute to the process of determining overall incident strategies; selecting objectives; 
ensuring that point planning for tactical activities is accomplished in accordance with approved incident 
objectives; ensuring the integration of tactical operations; and approving, committing and making 
optimum use of all assigned resources. The exact composition of the UC structure will depend on the 
location(s) of the incident and type of incident or which functional agencies are involved in the response.

_____	The designated agency officials participating in the UC represent different legal authorities and functional 
areas of responsibility and use a collaborative process to establish incident objectives and designate 
priorities that accommodate those objectives. Jurisdictional responsibilities of multiple incident 
management officials are consolidated into a single planning process.  

_____	Under UC, incidents are managed under a single, collaborative approach.  Under UC, the Incident Action 
Plan (IAP) is developed by the Planning Section Chief and is approved by the UC.  A single individual, 
the Operations Section Chief, directs the tactical implementation of the IAP.  The Operations Section 
Chief will normally come from the agency with the greatest jurisdictional involvement.  UC participants 
will agree on the designation of the Operations Section Chief.  UC works best when participating 
members of the UC collocate at the Incident Command Post.

_____	The primary differences between the single command structure and the UC structure are that in a single 
command structure the IC is solely responsible for establishing incident management objectives and 
strategies.  In a UC structure, the individuals designated by their jurisdictional authorities must jointly 
determine objectives, plans and priorities and work together to execute them.


ICS in DHS - Organization and Operations (General Staff)

The ICS organization has five major functions - command, operations, planning, logistics and finance/ 
administration.  A potential sixth functional area to cover the information and intelligence function can be 
established for gathering and sharing incident related information and intelligence.  The following ICS 
organization and operations characteristics relevant to the ICS General Staff are taught by DHS in ICS training 
programs.  (More detailed information is provided in the NIMS Document and in DHS and NWCG ICS Training 
Materials)

_____	The General Staff includes incident management personnel who represent the major functional elements 
of the ICS including the Operations Section Chief, Planning Section Chief, Logistics Section Chief and 
Finance/Administration Section Chief.  Command Staff and General Staff must continually interact and 
share vital information and estimates of the current and future situation and develop recommended 
courses of action for consideration by the IC.

_____	The Operations Section is responsible for all activities focused on reduction of the immediate hazard, 
saving lives and property, establishing situational control and restoration of normal operations.  The 
Operations Section can consist of branch(es), divisions/groups and resources.  The exact structure of the 
Operations Section will vary according to numerous considerations and operational factors.  In some 
cases, the organizational structure will be determined by jurisdictional boundaries. In other cases, a 
strictly functional approach will be used.  The ICS offers flexibility in determining the right structural 
approach for the specific incident at hand.

_____	The Operations Section Chief is responsible to the IC or the UC for the direct management of all incident 
related operational activities.  The Operations Section Chief will establish tactical objectives for each 
operational period.  The Operations Section Chief may have one of more deputies assigned, with the 
assignment of deputies from other agencies encouraged in the case of multi-jurisdictional incidents.  

_____	Branches may be used in the Operations Section to serve several purposes and may be functional or 
geographic in nature.  In general, branches are established when a number of divisions or groups exceeds 
the recommended span of control of one supervisor to three to seven subordinates.  

_____	Divisions and Group are established when the numbers of resources exceeds the manageable span of 
control of the IC and the Operations Section Chief.  Divisions are established to divide an incident into 
physical or geographical areas of operation.  Groups are established to divide the incident into functional 
areas of operation.  For certain types of incidents, for example, the IC may assign intelligence-related 
activities to a functional group in the Operations Section.  There also may be additional levels of 
supervision below the Division or Group level.

_____	Resources refer to the combination of personnel and equipment required to enable incident management 
operations.  Resources may be organized and managed in three different ways, depending on the 
requirements of the incident.  These three ways include the following: single resources, task forces and 
strike teams

_____	The Planning Section collects, evaluates and disseminates incident situation information and intelligence 
to the IC or UC and incident management personnel.  The Planning Section also performs the following 
functions:
	
*	Prepares status reports
*	Displays situation information
*	Maintains status of resources assigned to the incident
*	Develops and documents the IAP based on guidance for the IC or UC

_____	The planning section comprises four primary units (Resources Unit, Situation Unit, Demobilization Unit 
and Documentation Unit) as well as a number of technical specialists to assist in evaluating the situation, 
developing planning options and forecasting requirements for additional resources.

_____	The planning section is also responsible for developing and documenting the Incident Action Plan (IAP).  
A more detailed discuss of the IAP will be addressed in the next section.

_____	The Logistics Section is responsible for all support requirements needed to facilitate effective and 
efficient incident management.  These supports requirements include the ordering of resources from off-
incident locations.  The logistics section can implement the following units for support purposes:  supply, 
food, ground support, communications, facilities and medical.  The logistics section can also be divided 
into two branches (Service and Support) with the three units under each branch.

_____	The logistics section also provides facilities, transportation, supplies, equipment maintenance and fuel, 
food services, communications and information technology support and emergency medical responder 
medical services for incident personnel.

_____	The Finance/Administration Section is established when the agency(s) involved in incident management 
activities require(s) finance and other administrative support.  Not all incidents will require a separate 
Finance/Administration Section.  In cases that require only one specific function 
(e.g., cost analysis); this service may be provided by a technical specialist in the Planning Section.  The 
basic organizational structure for the Finance/Administration Section can include the following units:  
Compensation/Claims, Procurement, Cost and Time.

_____	The Information and Intelligence Function provides analysis and sharing of information and intelligence 
during an incident.  Intelligence can include national security or classified information but also can 
include operational information such as risk assessments, medical intelligence, weather information, 
structural designs of buildings, toxic contaminant levels, etc. that may come from a variety of sources.  
Traditionally, information and intelligence functions are located in the Planning Section.  However, in 
exceptional situations, the IC may need to assign this role to other parts of the ICS organization.  The 
intelligence and information function may be assigned in one of the following ways:

*	Within the Command Staff;
*	As a Unit within the Planning Section;
*	As a Branch Within the Operations Section; and
*	As a Separate General Staff Section.



ICS in DHS - Organization and Operations (Incident Action Plan)

Due to the important characteristics of the IAP, these elements will be listed under a separate heading in this 
document.  The following ICS organization and operations characteristics relevant to the IAP are taught by DHS 
in ICS training programs.  (More detailed information is provided in the NIMS Document and in DHS and NWCG 
ICS Training Materials)

_____	The IAP includes the overall incident objectives and strategies established by the IC or UC.  The 
Planning Section is responsible for developing and documenting the IAP.  In the case of UC, the IAP 

must adequately address the mission and policy needs of each jurisdictional agency, as will as interaction 
between jurisdictions, functional agencies and private organizations.  The IAP also addresses tactical 
objectives and support activities for one operational period, generally 12-24 hours.  The IAP also contains 
provisions for continuous incorporation of "lessons learned" as incident management activities progress.  

The IAP will typically contain a number of components.  See example below:

IAP Component					Normally Prepared By

Incident Objectives				Incident Commander
Organization List or Chart				Resources Unit
Assignment List					Resources Unit
Communications Plan				Communication Unit
Responder Medical Plan				Medical Unit
Incident Map					Situation Unit
Health and Safety Plan				Safety Officer


Other Potential Components

Air Operations Summary				Air Operations
Traffic Plan					Ground Support Unit
Decontamination Plan				Technical Specialist
Waste Management/Disposal Plan			Technical Specialist
Demobilization Plan				Demobilization Unit
Operational Medical Plan			Technical Specialist
Evacuation Plan					Technical Specialist
Site Security Plan				Law Enforcement Specialist
Investigative Plan				Law Enforcement Specialist
Evidence Plan					Law Enforcement Specialist
Other						As Required


ICS in DHS - Organization and Operations (Area Command)

The following ICS organization and operations characteristics relevant to Area Command are taught by DHS in 
ICS training programs.  (More detailed information is provided in the NIMS Document and in DHS and NWCG 
ICS Training Materials)

_____	Area Command is activated only if necessary, depending on the complexity of the incident and the 
incident management span-of- control considerations.  An area command is established either to oversee 
the management of multiple incidents that are being handled by a separate ICS organization or to oversee 
the management of a very large incident that involves multiple ICS organizations.  

_____	Incidents that are not site specific or are geographically dispersed, or evolve over a long period of time 
such as a biological event may require the use of area command.  Acts of biological, chemical, 
radiological and/or nuclear terrorism represent particular challenges for the traditional ICS structure and 
will require extraordinary coordination between federal, State, local tribal, private-sector and 
nongovernmental organizations.  Area command is also used when there are a large number of incidents 
in the same area and of the same type.  These represent incidents they may compete for the same 
resources.  When incidents do not have similar resource demands, they are usually handled separately and 
are coordinated through the Emergency Operations Center (EOC).  

_____	If the incidents under the authority of area command are multi-jurisdictional, then a Unified Area 
Command should be established.  Area command should not be confused with the functions performed 
by an EOC.  An Area Command oversees management of incident(s), while the EOC coordinates 
supports functions and provided resources support.

_____	It is important to note that Area Command does not have operational responsibilities.  For incidents under 
its authority, the Area Command:

*	Sets overall agency incident-related priorities;
*	Allocates critical resources according to established priorities;
*	Ensures that incidents are managed properly;
*	Ensures effective communications;
*	Ensures that incident management objectives are met and do not conflict with each other or with 
agency policies;
*	Identifies critical resource needs and reports them to EOC(s);
*	Ensures that short-term emergency recovery is coordinated to assist in the transition to full recovery 
operations; and
*	Provides for personnel accountability and a safe operating environment.


ICS in DHS - Titles Assigned to Each Element of the ICS Organization

The following table depicts the distinctive title assigned to each element of the ICS organization at each 
corresponding level, as well as the leadership title corresponding to each individual element.  These characteristics 
are taught by DHS in ICS training programs.  (More detailed information is provided in the NIMS Document and 
in DHS and NWCG ICS Training Materials

Organizational Element			Leadership Position

Incident Command			Incident Commander (IC)
Command Staff				Officer
Section					Section Chief
Branch					Branch Director
Divisions and Groups*			Supervisors
Unit**					Unit Leader

* The hierarchical term supervisor is only used in the Operations Section.
** Unit Leader designations apply to the subunits of the Operations, Planning, Logistics and 
Finance/Administration Sections.



ICS in DHS - Recommendation for a Model Curriculum: ICS-100, ICS-200, ICS-300, ICS-400, ICS-402

DHS and the NIMS Integration Center support the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) Incident 
Command System (ICS) curriculum revision project which reflects an All-Hazards approach to ICS.  

The curriculum is currently being revised to encompass the following ICS courses:

*	ICS-100, Introduction to ICS;
*	ICS-200, Basic ICS;
*	ICS-300, Intermediate ICS;
*	ICS-400, Advanced ICS; and
*	ICS-402, ICS Summary for Executives.


DHS and FEMA course revisions are coordinated with and support the NWCG curriculum revision project.

The recommended target audience for each of the courses includes the following personnel:

ICS-100:  Introduction to ICS

Entry level first responders (including firefighters, police officers, emergency medical services providers, public 
works on-scene personnel, public health on-scene personnel and other emergency responders) and other 
emergency personnel that require an introduction to the basic components of the ICS.

ICS-200:  Basic ICS

First line supervisors, single resource leaders, lead dispatchers, field supervisors, company officers and entry level 
positions (trainees) on Incident Management Teams and other emergency personnel that require a higher level of 
ICS training.

ICS-300:  Intermediate ICS

Middle management, strike team leaders, task force leaders, unit leaders, division/group supervisors, branch 
directors and Multi-Agency Coordination System/Emergency Operations Center staff.

ICS-400:  Advanced ICS

Command and general staff, agency administrators, department heads, emergency managers, areas commander 
and Multi-Agency Coordination System/Emergency Operations Center managers.

ICS-402: ICS Summary for Executives

Elected officials, senior executive, senior managers and agency administrators with a policy responsibility that do 
not have a specific ICS or Multi-Agency Coordination System function/role or responsibility.


ICS-100 Introduction to ICS - Objectives and Topical Areas

DHS and the NIMS Integration Center support the following overall course objective for ICS-100:  Orient the 
student to the Incident Command System (ICS).  Training developed and conducted by federal, state, local and 
tribal agencies as well as private training vendors at the ICS-100 level should include at a minimum the following 
topical areas along with the specific objectives noted:

_____	Purpose of ICS 

*	Identify requirements to use ICS
*	Identify three purposes of ICS.
*	Identify common incident tasks.

_____	Basic Features of ICS

*	Describe the basic features of ICS.


_____	Incident Commander and Command Staff Functions

*	Describe the role and function of the Incident Commander.
*	Describe the role and function of the Command Staff.

_____	General Staff Functions

*	Describe the role and function of the Operations Section
*	Describe the role and function of the Planning Section.
*	Describe the role and function of the Logistics Section.
*	Describe the role and function of the Finance/Administration Section.

_____	Facilities

*	Describe the six basic ICS facilities.
*	Identify facilities that may be located together.
*	Identify facility map symbols.

_____	Common Responsibilities

*	Describe common mobilization responsibilities.
*	Describe common responsibilities at an incident.
*	List individual accountability responsibilities.
*	Describe common demobilization responsibilities. 


ICS-200 Basic ICS - Objectives and Topical Areas

DHS and the NIMS Integration Center support the following overall course objective for ICS-200:  

*	Describe an ICS organization appropriate to the complexity of an incident or event.
*	Use the ICS to manage an incident or event.  

Training developed and conducted by federal, state, local and tribal agencies as well as private training vendors at 
the ICS-200 level should include at a minimum the following topical areas along with the specific objectives 
noted:

_____	Leadership and Management

*	Describe chain of command and formal communication relationships.
*	Identify common leadership responsibilities.
*	Describe span of control and modular development.
*	Describe the use of position titles.

_____	Delegation of Authority and Management by Objectives

*	Describe scope of authority.
*	Describe delegation of authority process.
*	Describe and explain management by objectives.

_____	Functional Areas and Positions

*	Identify the ICS tools to manage an incident.
*	Demonstrate the function of organizational positions within ICS.
*	Demonstrate the use of an ICS 201 form.

_____	Briefings

*	Give an Operational Briefing.
*	Describe components of field, staff and section briefings/meetings.


_____	Organizational Flexibility

*	Explain how the modular organization expands and contracts.
*	Given a scenario, complete a complexity analysis. 
*	Define the five types of incidents. 
*	Describe the importance of preparedness plans and agreements.  

_____	Transfer of Command

*	List the essential elements of information involved in transfer of command.
*	Describe the process of a transfer of command.


ICS-300 Intermediate ICS - Objectives and Topical Areas

DHS and the NIMS Integration Center support the following overall course objective for ICS-300:  

*	Describe how the NIMS Command and Management component supports the management of expanding 
incidents.

*	Describe the incident/event management process for expanding incidents and supervisors as prescribed 
by the Incident Command System.

*	Implement the incident management process on a simulated Type 3 incident.

*	Develop an Incident Action Plan for a simulated incident.

Training developed and conducted by federal, state, local and tribal agencies as well as private training vendors at 
the ICS-300 level should include at a minimum the following topical areas along with the specific objectives 
noted:

_____	ICS Fundamentals Review

*	Describe how ICS fits into the Command and Management Component of NIMS.

*	Match responsibility statements to each ICS organizational element.

*	Describe how incidents can best be managed by appropriate and early designation of primary staff 
members and delegating authority to the lowest practical level.

*	List the minimum staffing requirements within each organizational element for at least two incidents of 
different sizes.

*	List the ICS positions which may include deputies and describe deputy roles and responsibilities.  
Describe differences between deputies and assistants. 

*	Describe ICS reporting and working relationships for Technical Specialists and Agency Representatives.  

*	Describe reporting relationships and information flow within the organization.


_____	Unified Command

*	Define and identify the primary features of Unified Command.

*	Describe how Unified Command functions on a multi-jurisdiction or multi-agency incident.

*	List the advantages of Unified Command.  

*	Given a simulated situation, demonstrate roles and reporting relationships under a Unified Command 
which involves agencies from within the same jurisdiction and under multi-jurisdiction conditions.

_____	Incident/Event Assessment and Agency Guidance in establishing Incident Objectives

*	Describe methods and tools used to assess incident/event complexity.  

*	Describe types of agency(s) policies and guidelines that influence management of incident or event 
activities.  

*	Describe the five steps in transferring and assuming incident command.

*	Describe the process for developing incident objectives, strategies and tactics.  

*	As part of an exercise, develop Incident Objectives for a simulated incident.

_____	Incident Resources Management

*	Identify and describe four basic principles of resource management.

*	Identify the basic steps involved in managing incident resources

*	Recognize agency specific aviation policies and procedures as they relate to safety.

*	Describe the importance of establishing proper span of control for aviation resources and facilities. 

*	Describe how the ICS 215, Operational Planning Worksheet is used to manage incident/event resources.

*	Describe how the ICS 215A, Incident Safety Analysis is used with the ICS 215 to mitigate hazards to 
tactical operations.

*	Identify the organizational elements at the incident that can order resources.

*	Describe the differences between single and multipoint resource ordering and the reasons for each.

*	Identify five key considerations associated with resource management and the reasons for each.

_____	Planning Process

*	Identify the importance of planning for incidents/events.

*	Explain the differences between planning for incidents or events.

*	Discuss major planning steps including logistical concerns, cost benefit analysis, understanding the 
situation, developing and implementing the plan and evaluating the plan.
                                                    
*	Explain the criteria for determining when the Incident Action Plan (IAP) should be prepared in writing. 

*	Describe the role and use of ICS forms and supporting materials included in an IAP for effective 
incident/events management.

*	Describe the strategy meeting, tactics meeting, planning meeting, operational briefing and team meetings.   

*	Given a scenario, describe appropriate strategies and tactics to meet Incident Objectives.  

*	Conduct a tactics meeting and complete an ICS 215, Operational Planning Worksheet and ICS 215A 
Incident Safety Analysis using the strategies and tactics from the scenario.

*	Participate in a planning meeting using the planning process and develop a written IAP for an 
incident/event using the appropriate ICS forms and supporting materials. 

*	Using the IAP, conduct an operational period briefing.


_____	Demobilization, Transfer of Command and Close Out

*	Describe the importance of demobilization planning.  

*	Identify the impact of agency specific policies, procedures and agreements upon demobilization planning.

*	Identify the ICS titles of personnel who have responsibilities in developing and implementing the 
demobilization plan and list their duties.

*	List the major sections in a demobilization plan.

*	Identify the need for transfer of command or close out.

*	Identify the processes involved in a close out meeting.


ICS-400 Advanced ICS - Objectives and Topical Areas

DHS and the NIMS Integration Center support the following overall course objectives for ICS-400. 
Training developed and conducted by federal, state, local and tribal agencies as well as private training vendors at 
the ICS-400 level should include at a minimum the following topical areas along with the specific objectives 
noted:

_____	ICS Fundamentals Review for Command and General Staff

*	Describe how Unified Command functions on a multi-jurisdiction or multi-agency incident.

*	Define the advantages of Unified Command and list the kinds of situations which may call for a Unified 
Command organization.

*	List the major steps involved in the planning process.

*	Describe issues that influence incident complexity and the tools available to analyze complexity.

*	Describe types of agency(s) policies, guidelines and agreements that influence management of incident or 
event activities.

*	Describe the primary guidelines and responsibilities of the Command and General Staff positions. 

*	Describe the purposes and responsibilities of Agency Representatives or technical specialists, reporting 
relationships and how they can be effectively used within the incident organization.

*	Describe the process for transfer of command. 


_____	Major and/or Complex Incident/Event Management

*	List the principal factors found in or related to major and/or complex incidents/events.

*	List the four expansion options for incident/event organization and describe the conditions under which 
they would be applied. 

*	Demonstrate, through an exercise, how to apply the various options related to major and/or complex 
incident/event management.


_____	Area Command

*	Define Area Command.

*	List the principal advantages of using Area Command.

*	Describe how, when and where Area Command would be established.

*	Describe the Area Command organization.

*	Identify six primary functional responsibilities of Area Command.

*	Given a scenario, develop an Area Command organization.


_____	Multi-Agency Coordination

*	Describe the kinds of incident/event management problems that can occur due to a lack of Multi-Agency 
Coordination.

*	Define essential terms related to Multi-Agency Coordination.

*	Identify the major guidelines for establishing and using Multi-Agency Coordination Groups and Systems.

*	Provide examples of the different levels at which Multi-Agency Coordination is commonly 
accomplished. 

*	Identify the primary components of a Multi-Agency Coordination System.

*	Describe examples of entities that may provide Multi-Agency Coordination.

*	List the responsibilities of Multi-Agency Coordination entities. 

*	Identify principal positions within a Multi-Agency Coordination System.

*	Identify differences between Area Command, Unified Command, Multi-Agency Coordination entities.

ICS-402 ICS Summary for Executives - Objectives and Topical Areas

DHS and the NIMS Integration Center support the following overall course objectives for ICS-402. 
Training developed and conducted by federal, state, local and tribal agencies as well as private training vendors at 
the ICS-402 level should include at a minimum the following specific objectives:

*	Define the role of an Executive relative to the ICS.

*	Describe the various ways ICS can be applied.

*	Describe the basic organization of ICS and know the functional responsibilities of the Command and 
General Staffs.

*	Describe basic ICS terminology.

*	Identify the differences between incident/event ICS organizations and the activities accomplished by 
Area Commands, Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs) and Multi-Agency Coordination Systems 
(MACS).

*	Describe the major responsibilities of an Executive as related to an incident/event.  (Include the agency 
administrator briefing and delegation of authority)

*	Explain the administrative, logistical, financial and reporting implications of large incident/event 
operations.


Multi-Agency Coordination System in DHS - Concepts and Principles

Overview:  The following concepts and principles of NIMS relating to the  multi-agency coordination system need 
to be addressed in NIMS  training offered by other federal agencies, state, local and tribal agencies, as well as by 
private vendors.  If these concepts and principles are addressed in non-DHS training the training will meet the 
standards established by the NIMS Integration Center.  A checklist evaluating NIMS training content relevant to 
the multi-agency coordination system follows.

The core concepts and principles of the Multi-Agency Coordination System as taught by DHS (and as defined in 
the NIMS Document) incorporate the following components:

_____	A multi-agency coordination system is a combination of facilities, equipment, personnel, procedures and 
communications integrated into a common system with responsibility for coordinating and supporting 
domestic incident management activities.  

_____	The primary functions of multi-agency coordination systems are to support incident management policies 
and priorities, facilitate logistics support and resource tracking, inform resource allocation decisions using 
incident management priorities, coordinate incident management related information and coordinate 
interagency and intergovernmental issues regarding incident management policies, priorities and 
strategies.  

_____	A typical multi-agency coordination system may contain one or several Emergency Operations Centers 
(EOCs).  A typical multi-agency coordination system may contact numerous Department Operations 
Center (DOCs).  Depending upon the type and location of the emergency/disaster various command 
elements (i.e. area commands, unified command or the incident commander) will have to coordinate 
activities within an established multi-agency coordination system.  

_____	Training dealing with the NIMS multi-agency coordination system shall describe to participants the 
components of a multi-agency coordination system and establish relationships between all elements of the 
system. It shall also increase the participant's knowledge of NIMS relevant to the multi-agency 
coordination system.  It shall increase the participant's knowledge of the integrated nature of emergency 
management throughout the nation and advocate the adoption of the guidelines established in the NIMS 
document.  The training shall contain specific disaster/emergency related examples that relate to multi-
agency coordination systems at the local, state and federal levels of government.     

_____		At the conclusion of the training, users should be able to:
       
*	Define multi-agency coordination at the local, state and federal levels of government.
*	Identify each agency involved in incident management activities to ensure appropriate situational 
awareness and resources status information is shared through multi-agency coordination.
*	Identify typical priorities established between elements of the multi-agency coordination system.
*	Define key terms related to multi-agency coordination systems.
*	Describe the process of acquiring and allocating resources required by incident management 
personnel in relationship to the entire multi-agency coordination system.
*	Identify typical future resource requirements for the entire multi-agency coordination system
*	Identify potential coordination and policy issues arising from an incident relative to the entire multi-
agency coordination system.


Public Information System in DHS - Concepts and Principles

Overview:  The following concepts and principles of NIMS relating to the  public information system need to be 
addressed in NIMS  training offered by other federal agencies, state, local and tribal agencies, as well as by 
private vendors.  If these concepts and principles are addressed in non-DHS training the training will meet the 
standards established by the NIMS Integration Center.  A checklist evaluating NIMS training content relevant to 
the public information system follows.

The core concepts and principles of the Public Information System as taught by DHS (and as defined in the NIMS 
Document) incorporate the following components:

 Systems and protocols for communicating timely and accurate information to the public are critical during crisis 
or emergency situations.  NIMS' provides some basic guidance that describes the principles, system components 
and procedures needed to support effective emergency public information.  NIMS public information principles 
include the following factors:

_____	The Public Information Officer (PIO) supports Incident Command.

_____	The PIO supports incident command on all public information matters relating to the management of the 
incident.

_____	The PIO coordinates public information at or near the incident site and serves as a link to the Joint 
Information System (JIS).

_____	In a large-scale operation, the on-scene PIO serves as a field PIO with links to the Joint Information 
Center (JIC), which is typically collocated with the federal, state, local, or tribal Emergency Operations 
Center (EOC) tasked with primary incident coordination responsibilities.

_____	Public information functions must be coordinated and integrated across jurisdictions and across 
functional agencies; among federal, state, local and tribal partners; and with private-sector and 
nongovernmental organizations.

_____	Organizations participating in incident management retain their independence during an incident. Incident 
commanders and multi-agency coordination entities are responsible for establishing and overseeing JICs 
including processes for coordinating and clearing public communications.  In the case of unified 
command, the departments, agencies, organizations, or jurisdictions that contribute to joint public 
information management do not lose their individual or identities or responsibilities for their own 
programs or policies.  Rather, each entity contributes to the overall unified message.

_____	Training dealing with the NIMS Public Information System shall describe to participants the 
components of a public information system and establish relationships between all elements of the system 
and with the multi-agency coordination system under NIMS.  It shall also increase the participant's 
knowledge of NIMS relevant to the public information system.  It shall increase the participant's 
knowledge of the integrated nature of emergency management throughout the nation and advocate the 
adoption of the guidelines established in the NIMS document.  The training shall contain specific 
disaster/emergency related examples that relate to public information systems at the local, state and 
federal levels of government.  The course shall describe and increase the participant's knowledge of the 
Joint Information System (JIS) and the Joint Information Center (JIC).  

_____		When training is concluded, users should be able to:

*	Define public information systems at the local, state and federal levels of government to include the 
Joint Information System (JIS) and Joint Information Center (JIC).
*	Identify each agency involved in public information activities to ensure appropriate situational 
awareness and resources status information is shared through joint information system.

*	Identify typical priorities established between elements of the public information system.
*	Define key terms related to public information system to include the relationship with multi-agency 
coordination systems and the field.
*	Describe the process of gathering, verifying, coordinating and disseminating public information by 
incident management personnel in relationship to the entire multi-agency coordination system and 
the public information system.
*	Identify typical resource requirements for the public information system.
*	Identify potential coordination and policy issues arising from an incident relative to the public 
information system.


Preparedness in DHS - Concepts and Principles

Overview:  The following concepts and principles of NIMS relating to preparedness need to be addressed in NIMS  
training offered by other federal agencies, state, local and tribal agencies, as well as by private vendors.  If these 
concepts and principles are addressed in non-DHS training the training will meet the standards established by the 
NIMS Integration Center.  A checklist evaluating NIMS training content relevant to preparedness follows.

The core concepts and principles of preparedness as taught by DHS (and as defined in the NIMS Document) 
incorporate the following components:

_____	Levels of Capability: Preparedness involves actions to establish and sustain prescribed levels of 
       capability necessary to execute a full range of incident management operations.

_____	A Unified Approach: Preparedness requires a unified approach.  

_____	NIMS Publications:  NIMS provides or establishes processes for providing guidelines; protocols; 
standards for planning, training, qualifications and certification; and publication management.

_____	Mitigation:  Mitigation activities are important elements of preparedness and provide a critical foundation 
across the incident management spectrum from prevention through response and recovery.

_____	Achieving Preparedness:  Individual federal, state, local and tribal organizations are responsible for 
implementing the preparedness cycle in advance of an incident and appropriately including private sector 
and non-governmental organizations in such implementation.  

NIMS provide the tools to ensure and enhance preparedness through the following areas:

*	Preparedness Organizations;
*	Preparedness Programs;
*	Preparedness Planning;
*	Emergency Operations Plans;
*	Emergency Procedures;
*	Preparedness Plans;
*	Corrective Action and Mitigation Plans;
*	Training and Exercises;
*	Personnel Qualification and Certification;
*	Equipment Certification;
*	Mutual Aid Agreements; and
*	Publication Management.


Resource Management in DHS - Concepts and Principles

Overview:  The following concepts and principles of NIMS relating to resource management need to be addressed 
in NIMS  training offered by other federal agencies, state, local and tribal agencies, as well as by private vendors.  
If these concepts and principles are addressed in non-DHS training the training will meet the standards 
established by the NIMS Integration Center.  A checklist evaluating NIMS training content relevant to resource 
management follows.

The core concepts and principles of resource management as taught by DHS (and as defined in the NIMS 
Document) incorporate the following components:

Resource management involves coordination and overseeing the application of tools, processes and systems that 
provide incident managers with timely and appropriate resources during an incident.  Resources include personnel, 
teams, facilities, equipment and supplies.  Resource management involves the four primary tasks noted below.

_____	The establishment of systems for describing, inventorying, requesting and tracking resources.

_____	The activation of these systems prior to and during an incident.

_____	The dispatching of resources prior to and during an incident.

_____	The deactivating or recalling of resources during or after an incident.

The underlying concepts that shall be included in NIMS resources management training include the following:

_____	Resource management provides a uniform method of identifying, acquiring, allocating and tracking 
resources.

_____	Resource management uses effective mutual-aid and donor assistance and is enable by the standardized 
classification of kinds and types of resources required to support the incident management organization.

_____	Resource management uses a credentialing system tied to uniform training and certification standards to 
ensure the requested personnel resources are successfully integrated into on-going incident operations.

_____	Resource management coordination is the responsibility of the EOCs and/or multi-agency coordination 
entities, as well as specific elements of the ICS structure (e.g., the Resources Unit).

_____	Resource management should encompass resources contributed by the private-sector and non-
governmental organizations.

_____	Training dealing with NIMS resource management shall describe to participants the 
components of resource management and establish relationships between all elements of  resource 
management with the multi-agency coordination system under NIMS.  These elements shall include:

*	Advance Planning;
*	Resource Identification and Ordering;
*	Categorizing Resources;
*	Use of Agreements;
*	Effective Management of Resources;
*	Management Information Systems;
*	Ordering, Mobilization, Dispatching and Demobilization Protocols;
*	Identifying and Typing Resources;
*	Certifying and Credentialing Personnel;
*	Inventorying Resources;
*	Identifying Resource Requirements;
*	Ordering and Acquiring Resources;
*	Mobilizing Resources;
*	Tracking and Reporting Resources;
*	Recovering Resources; and
*	Reimbursement.


Communications and Information Management in DHS - Concepts and Principles

Overview:  The following concepts and principles of NIMS relating to communications and information 
management need to be addressed in NIMS  training offered by other federal agencies, state, local and tribal 
agencies, as well as by private vendors.  If these concepts and principles are addressed in non-DHS training the 
training will meet the standards established by the NIMS Integration Center.  A checklist evaluating NIMS 
training content relevant to communications and information management follows.

The core concepts and principles of communication and information management as taught by DHS (and as 
defined in the NIMS Document) incorporate the following components:

Effective communications, information management and information and intelligence sharing are critical aspects 
of domestic incident management.  Establishing and maintaining a common operating picture and ensuring 
accessibility and interoperability are principle goals of communications and information management.  A common 
operating picture and systems interoperability provide the framework necessary to 

_____	Formulate and disseminate indications and warning.

_____	Formulate, execute and communicate operational decisions at an incident site, as well as between incident 
management entities across jurisdictions and functional agencies.

_____	Prepare for potential requirements and requests supporting incident management activities.

_____	Develop and maintain overall awareness and understanding of an incident within and across jurisdictions

NIMS communications and information management principles include the following factors:

_____	A common operating picture accessible across jurisdictions and functional agencies allows incident 
managers at all levels to make effective, consistent and timely decisions.

_____	Integrated systems for communication, information management and intelligence and information sharing 
allow data to be continuously updated during an incident, providing a common framework that covers the 
incident's life cycle across jurisdictions and disciplines.

_____	A common operating picture helps ensure consistency at all levels of incident management across 
jurisdictions, as well as between various governmental jurisdictions and private sector and 
nongovernmental entities that are engaged.

_____	Common communications and data standards and related testing and compliance mechanisms are 
fundamental to an effective NIMS.

_____	Training dealing with the NIMS communications and information management system shall establish 
relationships between all elements of the system and with the multi-agency coordination system and 
incident management under NIMS.  It shall also increase the participant's knowledge of NIMS relevant to 
communications and information management.  It shall increase the participant's knowledge of incident 
management communications and for the need to implement an effective information management 
system.  The training shall contain specific disaster/emergency related examples that relate to 
communications and information management systems at the local, state and federal levels of 
government.  The training shall describe and increase the participant's knowledge of pre-incident 
information needs, information management needs to include incident notification and situation and 
status reporting, networking information and technology use to include geospatial information and 
wireless communication.


_____		At the conclusion of the training, users should be able to:
       
*	Define communications and information management at the local, state and federal levels of government 
to include the common operating picture, common communications and data standards.
*	Identify each agency involved in communications and information management activities before, during 
and after a domestic disaster incident.
*	Identify typical interoperability standards established by the NIMS Integration Center relative to 
communications and information management to include incident notification and situation reports, status 
reports, analytical data, geospatial information, wireless communications and identification and 
authentication issues.
*	Define key terms related to communications and information management to include the relationship with 
multi-agency coordination systems, public information systems and the field.
*	Identify incident management communications issues relative to the incident command system for 
individual jurisdictions and for multi-jurisdictions.
*	Identify potential coordination and policy issues arising from an incident relative to communications and 
information management.


Supporting Technologies in DHS - Concepts and Principles

Overview:  The following concepts and principles of NIMS relating to supporting technologies  need to be 
addressed in NIMS  training offered by other federal agencies, state, local and tribal agencies, as well as by 
private vendors.  If these concepts and principles are addressed in non-DHS training the training will meet the 
standards established by the NIMS Integration Center.  A checklist evaluating NIMS training content relevant to 
supporting technologies follows.

The core concepts and principles of supporting technologies as taught by DHS (and as defined in the NIMS 
Document) incorporate the following components:

_____	Technology and Technological systems provide supporting capabilities essential to implementing and 
continuously refining the NIMS.  These include voice and data communications systems, information 
systems and display systems.  These also include specialized technologies that facilitate incident 
operations and incident management activities in situations that call for unique technology-based 
capabilities.

Training dealing with the NIMS supporting technologies shall incorporate five key principles.

_____	Interoperability and Compatibility

_____	Technology Support

_____	Technology Standards

_____	Broad-based Requirements

_____	Strategic Planning for Research and Development


Supporting technologies enhance incident management capabilities or lower costs through three principal 
activities: operational scientific support; technology standards support; and research and development 
support.  Training shall therefore include the following concepts for supporting technologies:

_____	Operational Scientific Support

_____	Technical Standards Support to include:

*	Performance Measurements as a Basis for Standards;
*	Consensus-Based Performance Standards;
*	Test and Evaluation by Objective Experts; and
*	Technical Guidelines for Training Emergency Responders on Equipment Use.

_____	Research and Development to Solve Operational Problems









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National Standard Curriculum Training Development Guidance
July 2005
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