Purpose Statement
The GIS #1 and GIS #2 fields in occupancy records are polygon-based geographic identification fields that automatically populate with relevant geographical area information when occupancies are created or updated. These fields enable departments to organize and filter occupancy data based on geographic zones, districts, or other polygon-defined areas within their jurisdiction, improving operational efficiency and data organization for pre-planning, inspections, and community engagement activities.
Background Information
The GIS #1 and GIS #2 fields utilize polygon-based shape files to automatically assign geographic zone information to occupancy records based on their physical location. This automation eliminates manual data entry errors and ensures consistent geographic categorization across all occupancy records. These fields are commonly used to represent fire districts, response zones, inspection areas, battalion boundaries, or other operationally significant geographic divisions. The feature requires polygon zone shape files to be provided and uploaded by the client, as the system cannot function without this geographic boundary data.
Required Permissions
To view and utilize the GIS #1 and GIS #2 fields, users need:
Occupancy Management permissions to view and create occupancy records
Pre-Plan access permissions to view fields in Pre-Plan Organizer
Inspection permissions to view fields in inspection-related interfaces
Field Management permissions (for administrators) to update field labels
Advanced Search permissions to filter by GIS fields
Note: The actual polygon shape files must be uploaded by system administrators with appropriate GIS data management permissions.
Video
Instructions
Important Note:
The client has to provide polygon zone shape file(s) to have the GIS #1 & GIS #2 fields update automatically. The GIS #1 & GIS #2 fields cannot be manually set for an Occupancy.
Important Note:
The GIS #1 & GIS #2 fields will only be viewable in an occupancy Record if the client has provided polygon shape files that are uploaded into the site.
1. The following UIs display the GIS #1 & GIS #2 fields as columns and filters:
- Pre- Plan Organizer
- Inspection Organizer
- Inspections List
- My Inspections
Community Connect User List
3. Columns - See List of Pages in Step 1
7. Field Management - Updated Label for GIS #1 & GIS #2 fields example:
8. Occupancy Record - Updated Labels for GIS #1 & GIS #2 fields:
Best Practices
- Ensure polygon shape files are accurate and up-to-date before uploading to maintain data integrity
- Use descriptive, department-specific labels for GIS #1 and GIS #2 fields (e.g., "Fire District" and "Battalion Area")
- Regularly review GIS field data for accuracy, especially after boundary changes or jurisdictional updates
- Train users that these fields are automatically populated and cannot be manually overridden
- Utilize GIS fields in Advanced Search and filtering to improve operational efficiency
- Consider how GIS fields align with existing department organizational structure before implementation
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Q: Why don't I see GIS #1 and GIS #2 fields in my occupancy records?
A: These fields only appear if your department has provided polygon zone shape files that have been uploaded to the system. Contact your system administrator about obtaining and uploading the required shape files.
Q: Can I manually enter or edit GIS #1 and GIS #2 field values?
A: No, these fields are automatically populated based on geographic location and cannot be manually edited. The system updates them when occupancies are created or their locations are modified.
Q: The GIS fields show incorrect zone information for an occupancy. How do I fix this?
A: Verify the occupancy's address and coordinates are correct. If the location data is accurate but the zone assignment is wrong, the polygon shape files may need updating. Contact your GIS administrator or system administrator.
Q: How often do the GIS fields update?
A: GIS fields update automatically whenever an occupancy record is created or when location information (address, coordinates) is modified on an existing occupancy.
Q: Can I use GIS fields for reporting and analytics?
A: Yes, GIS #1 and GIS #2 fields can be used in Advanced Search, filtering, and reporting functions across all supported interfaces to analyze occupancy data by geographic zones.