Purpose Statement

The Custom Fields feature in Investigation Setup allows administrators to modify existing data fields used in Fire Investigation reports. This includes updating field labels, requiring fields for completion, and customizing selectable values to better align with agency-specific reporting needs.

Background Information

Custom Fields provide flexibility in how data is captured during Fire Investigations. Instead of being limited to default field configurations, agencies can:

• Rename field labels to match internal terminology
• Require certain fields for compliance or reporting accuracy
• Customize dropdown values for standardized data entry

Not all fields support value customization, but when available, the Values tab allows further configuration.

Required Permissions

Users typically need:

• Fire Investigation Access
• Investigation Setup
• Field Management
• Edit Configuration Settings

Permissions may vary based on agency configuration.

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Step-by-Step Guide
 

1. Navigate to Investigation Setup

1. Navigate to Fire Investigation.
2. Select Investigation Setup.

2. Open Field Management

1. Select the Field Management tab.

3. View or Manage Existing Custom Fields

1. A list of existing Custom Fields will display (if any exist).
2. Use the Actions column to:
   • Select the pencil icon to edit a field
   • Select the trashcan icon to delete a field

4. Create a New Custom Field Configuration

1. Select New Custom Field.
2. From the Field Name dropdown, select a field to customize:
   • Scroll through the list, or
   • Use the search bar to find a field

Note:

• Fields that already have customization applied will not appear in the dropdown.
• To modify an existing customized field, use the pencil icon from the list.

5. Update Field Settings

1. Once a field is selected:
   • Update the Label (display name)
   • Select Is Required if the field must be completed during an Investigation

6. Access the Values Tab (If Available)

1. Some fields include a Values tab for dropdown customization.

7. Customize Field Values

1. Within the Values tab, you can:
   • Reorder values using drag-and-drop (three stacked lines)
   • Edit the Code
   • Edit the Description
   • Set a value as Active/Inactive
   • Delete a value using the trashcan icon

8. Add New Values

1. Select Add Custom Option.
2. Enter the new value details.

9. Save Changes

1. After completing field settings and value updates, select Save.

Best Practices

• Use consistent naming conventions when updating field labels.
• Only mark fields as required when necessary to avoid slowing down data entry.
• Keep dropdown values clear and standardized to improve reporting accuracy.
• Disable or remove outdated values to maintain a clean selection list.
• Review customizations periodically to ensure they still meet operational needs.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Why can’t I find a field in the dropdown?
Fields that already have customization applied will not appear. Use the edit (pencil) icon to modify them.

Why don’t I see a Values tab?
Not all fields support customizable values. The Values tab only appears for applicable field types.

What happens if I mark a field as required?
Users will be required to complete that field before finalizing an Investigation.

Can I delete a custom field?
Yes, if allowed by your system configuration. Use the trashcan icon in the Actions column.

Can I reorder dropdown values?
Yes, use drag-and-drop to organize values in the desired order.