Purpose Statement
Evaluation Categories, Groups, and Sub-Groups provide the organizational structure for the Evaluations module. These components allow departments to organize evaluations into logical sections, making it easier to build, manage, assign, and track evaluation programs.
Properly configuring this structure ensures Evaluation Libraries, Checklists, and Evaluation Types can be organized consistently across your agency.
Background Information
Evaluation Groups are organized using a three-level hierarchy:
- Category – The overall evaluation program, packet, or certification track.
- Group – A major topic or section within the Category.
- Sub-Group – A specific skill, task, or competency that will be evaluated.
For example:
Category: Driver/Engineer Training
- Group: Engine Operations
- Sub-Group: Basic Fire Attack
- Sub-Group: Multi-Line Fire Attack
- Group: Aerial Operations
- Sub-Group: Elevated Water Stream Operations
- Sub-Group: Aerial Device Positioning
Once configured, Categories, Groups, and Sub-Groups can be used throughout the Evaluations module when building Evaluation Libraries, Checklists, and Evaluation Types.
Required Permissions
To create, edit, or delete Evaluation Categories, Groups, and Sub-Groups, users must have the following permission:
Organizational Structure
- Read
- Create
- Update
- Delete
Contact your system administrator if you do not have the required permissions.
Video
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Access Evaluation Group Setup
- Navigate to Evaluations.
- Select Setup.
- The Groups page will open by default.
- From this page, you can create and manage Categories, Groups, and Sub-Groups.
2. Create a Category
- Click Action.
- Select Add Category.
- Enter a Name for the Category.
- Enter a Short Code.
- The Short Code is used as an internal identifier.
- Enter a Description.
- Click Save.
The new Category will be added to the list and will be available when creating Groups and Sub-Groups.
3. Create a Group
Groups must be associated with an existing Category.
- Click Action.
- Select Add Group.
- Select the appropriate Category.
- Enter a Group Name.
- Enter a Group Short Code.
- The Short Code is used as an internal identifier.
- Enter a Description.
- Click Save.
Tip:
Examples of Groups could include:
- Apparatus Awareness
- Fireground Operations
- EMS Operations
- Driving Operations
- Documentation Standards
4. Create a Sub-Group
Sub-Groups represent the specific skills, actions, or competencies personnel will be evaluated on.
- Click Action.
- Select Add Sub-Group.
- Select the appropriate Category.
- Select the Parent Group.
- Enter a Sub-Group Name.
- Enter a Short Code.
- Enter a Description.
- Click Save.
Tip:
Examples of Sub-Groups could include:
- Equipment Proficiency
- Tank to Hydrant Changover
- Elevated Water Stream Operations
- Airway Insertion
5. Edit a Category, Group, or Sub-Group
- Locate the record you want to modify.
- Click the Edit (pencil) icon.
- Make the necessary changes.
- Click Save.
6. Delete a Category, Group, or Sub-Group
- Locate the record you want to remove.
- Click the Delete icon.
- Confirm the deletion.
Warning:
Deleted records cannot be recovered.
Best Practices
- Create Categories around major training programs, certifications, or evaluation packets.
- Use Groups to organize broad subject areas within a Category.
- Use Sub-Groups to define the specific skills or competencies personnel will be evaluated on.
- Establish a consistent naming convention before building your evaluation structure.
- Use clear descriptions to help administrators understand the purpose of each item.
- Plan your organizational structure before creating Evaluation Libraries, Checklists, and Evaluation Types.
- Review records carefully before deleting them, as deletions are permanent.
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Why can't I create a Group?
A Group must be associated with an existing Category. Create the Category first, then create the Group.
Why can't I create a Sub-Group?
A Sub-Group requires both a Category and a Parent Group before it can be saved.
What is the purpose of the Short Code field?
The Short Code serves as an internal identifier and helps organize records within the system.
Can I edit Categories, Groups, and Sub-Groups after they are created?
Yes. Select the Edit icon next to the record and save your changes.
Can deleted Categories, Groups, or Sub-Groups be restored?
No. Deleted records are permanently removed and cannot be recovered.
What are Categories, Groups, and Sub-Groups used for?
They provide the organizational framework used throughout the Evaluations module and are available when creating Evaluation Libraries, Checklists, and Evaluation Types.