Responder Setup: Outside Resources

Responder Setup: Outside Resources

Purpose Statement

Outside Resources allows First Due program managers and administrators to provide direct links to external documents, web pages, and resources that mobile responder users can access directly from their mobile app. This feature streamlines access to critical external information without requiring users to exit the app environment or search for resources independently.

Background Information

Outside Resources serves as a centralized hub for external links within the Mobile Responder application. This feature is particularly valuable for fire departments and EMS agencies that need to provide quick access to reference materials, training documents, compliance resources, or partner organization websites. The feature supports both web pages and document links, opening them in new browser windows or applications as appropriate. All Outside Resources are managed through the web-based responder setup interface and automatically sync to mobile devices.

NotesINFO: Outside Resources added through the web will populate under RESOURCES for all users in the account.

Required Permissions

These permissions are located in the Others- Others Section of Permissions:
  1. Manage Outside Resources --Allows users to Create, Edit and Delete Outside Resources.

Video


Step-by-Step Guide

1.  Outside Resources is located in Mobile Response, under Menu.






2. To Create or Edit an Outside resource, the User must be in WEB Responder. First, navigate to Response module and then select Responder Setup.






3. Select Outside Resources.






4.  Outside Resources can be found either searching by name or scrolling through the list. 






5.  The displayed list can be exported into a CSV or Excel File by selecting the download button.






6.  Columns can be sorted in ascending or descending order.






7. To create a new Outside Resource , select New Outside Resource.






8A.  Add a Name for the Outside Resource to be identified.
8B.  Add the URL of the outside resource.
8C.  Select Save
NotesInfo
INFO: Copy and Paste is the easiest and safest practice to ensure the URL is correct.






9.  The new outside resource now appears in the list.






10. To edit the Outside Resource select the Pencil Icon.






11. To delete the Outside Resource select the Trash Can Icon. Once deleted the Outside Resource can not be recovered.






12. To copy the URL of the Outside Resource select the duplicate button.






12. In Mobile our new Outside Resources now appears in the list and is able to be utilized.




Best Practices

Do's

  • Copy and paste URLs directly to prevent typing errors
  • Use descriptive, clear names that mobile users will easily understand
  • Test all links before saving to ensure they work properly
  • Organize resources logically for easy mobile navigation
  • Regularly review and update links to prevent broken resources
  • Consider mobile-friendly websites when adding external resources

Don'ts

  • Don't manually type long URLs - always copy and paste
  • Don't use vague or abbreviated names that users won't recognize
  • Don't add resources without testing the links first
  • Don't delete resources without confirming they're no longer needed
  • Don't forget that deleted resources cannot be recovered

Tips & Recommendations

  • Group similar resources using consistent naming conventions
  • Consider adding date stamps to time-sensitive resources
  • Use the duplicate feature to quickly create similar resources
  • Export the resource list periodically as a backup
  • Coordinate with field personnel to identify the most valuable external resources

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: Why isn't my new Outside Resource appearing in the mobile app?
A: Resources should sync automatically to mobile devices. Try refreshing the mobile app or logging out and back in to force a sync.

Q: Can I organize Outside Resources into categories or folders?
A: The current system displays all resources in a single list. Use descriptive naming conventions with prefixes to create logical groupings.

Q: What happens if an external link becomes broken?
A: Users will encounter an error when trying to access the resource. Regularly test and update links to prevent this issue.

Q: Can I add documents stored on our local network?
A: External resources work best with publicly accessible web URLs. Local network resources may not be accessible from mobile devices in the field.

Q: Is there a limit to how many Outside Resources I can create?
A: The video doesn't specify a limit, but consider mobile usability when adding numerous resources.

Related Articles

  1. Responder: Setting up Unit Tracking
  2. Responder: Station View
  3. Mobile Response (iOS): Outside Resources

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