Purpose Statement

This article explains how to use Chat within the First Due Android Mobile Response App. Chat allows users to communicate within assigned chat groups to support coordination, situational awareness, and operational messaging.

Background Information

The Chat feature enables real-time messaging between users or unit users who have been assigned to chat groups by an administrator. Chats are designed for operational communication and are archived for administrative access. Depending on jurisdiction, chat messages may be subject to public records or Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests.

Common use cases include:

• Coordinating response activities
• Sharing operational updates
• Sending predefined messages for consistency

Prerequisites:

• First Due Android Mobile Response App installed
• User logged into the application
• Chat feature enabled by an administrator

Required Permissions

• Admin > Allow mobile app sign in: Allows user to sign into the Mobile App
• Admin > Allow Offline Sign in: Allows user to sign into the Mobile App while Offline

Video

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Access Chat

• Open the First Due Android Mobile Response App
• Select the Chat button from the bottom menu

• View the list of chat groups assigned by an administrator

2. Open a Chat Group

• Select a chat group from the list
• The selected chat opens in full screen

3. Send a Chat Message

• Select the message entry field
• Enter the message text
• Select Send to post the message to the chat group

4. Receive Chat Notifications

• When a new message is received, a banner notification appears
• The banner indicates activity within the assigned chat group

• A Badge notification also appears on the Chat Group Menu Icon.

• As well as a badge notification within the Chat Group List.

5. Use Preset Messages

(Available if configured by an administrator)

• Select the blue message icon in the lower-left corner
• Choose a preset message from the list
• The selected message is sent automatically

6. Understand Chat Retention

• All chat messages are archived and are accessible by administrators.

Best Practices

Do’s

• Keep all chat messages professional and operationally focused
• Use preset messages for consistency when available
• Assume chats are permanent and reviewable

Don’ts

• Do not use chat for non-work-related communication
• Do not share sensitive or confidential information unless approved by department policy

Tips & Recommendations

• Treat chat messages as official records
• Use clear, concise language to avoid misinterpretation
• Follow department communication and documentation policies

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q. Why don’t I see the Chat option?
A. The Chat feature must be enabled by an administrator and assigned to your user or unit.

Q. Can chat messages be deleted?
A. No. Chat messages are archived and cannot be deleted by end users.

Q. Are chat messages private?
A. No. Administrators can access chat history, and messages may be subject to public records requests.

Q. Why don't I hear a new Chat Message Notification when I'm in the App?
A. The notification sound is only played when the user is not in the App.