Purpose Statement

The checklist export feature allows module managers to download checklist templates from First Due into a CSV file format. This enables offline review, backup storage, bulk editing in spreadsheet applications, sharing with stakeholders, and integration with external systems. Exporting checklists is particularly useful for documentation purposes, auditing checklist structures, or preparing templates for modification before re-importing.

Background Information

First Due's checklist system provides structured inspection and verification workflows for assets, apparatus, facilities, and equipment. Checklists ensure consistent completion of routine tasks and compliance requirements. The export functionality converts your checklist structure—including all questions, response types, and configurations—into a universally readable CSV format.

Common use cases include:

• Creating backup copies of checklist configurations
• Reviewing checklist structures offline or in team meetings
• Bulk editing checklist items in Excel or Google Sheets before re-import
• Sharing checklist templates with other departments or agencies
• Documenting standard operating procedures
• Preparing checklists for compliance audits

Prerequisites:

• Active First Due user account with appropriate permissions
• At least one checklist created in the system
• Basic familiarity with CSV file handling

Required Permissions

To export checklists to CSV format, users must have Module Manager permissions for the Assets module. This permission level grants access to the Setup area where checklist configurations are managed. Users without Module Manager permissions will not see the Setup option or be able to access the checklist export functionality.

Video

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Navigate to Checklist Management 

1. From your First Due dashboard, click on the Assets module in the main navigation menu.
   
2. Click on the Setup button located in the Assets module toolbar.
   
3. Within the Setup area, click on Checklist to view all available checklists in your system.

2. Locate Your Target Checklist

1. Browse or search the checklist list to find the specific checklist you want to export.
   
2. Use the search function or sort options if you have multiple checklists configured.

​

3. Download the Checklist

In the Actions column for your selected checklist, click the Download icon (typically represented by a downward arrow or download symbol).

4. Access Your Downloaded File

The .CSV file will be automatically downloaded to your default downloads folder. The file will be named according to your checklist title (e.g., "Apparatus-Daily-Inspection.csv"). You can now open this file in Excel, Google Sheets, or any .CSV-compatible application.

Best Practices

Do's:

• Export checklists regularly as part of your backup routine
• Use descriptive naming conventions for your checklists before exporting to ensure meaningful file names
• Review exported CSV files in a spreadsheet application to verify all data exported correctly
• Store exported checklists in a secure, organized file structure with version dates
• Document any modifications made to exported CSV files before re-importing

Don'ts:

• Don't modify the CSV structure drastically if planning to re-import (maintain column headers and data types)
• Don't share exported checklists containing sensitive operational information without proper authorization
• Don't rely solely on exports as your backup strategy—use in conjunction with system backups
• Don't open CSV files in applications that auto-format data (which might corrupt checklist logic)

Additional Tips:

• Export checklists before making major structural changes to preserve the original configuration
• Use exported CSV files to create standardized templates for multiple stations or apparatus
• Consider exporting both before and after significant updates to track changes over time

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: I don't see the Download icon in the Actions column. Why?
A: Verify that you have Module Manager permissions for the Assets module. If you're not a module manager, contact your system administrator to request appropriate access.

Q: The CSV file won't open or appears corrupted. What should I do?
A: Ensure you're using a compatible spreadsheet application (Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, LibreOffice Calc). Try right-clicking the file and selecting "Open With" to choose your preferred application. If the issue persists, try exporting again.

Q: Can I export multiple checklists at once?
A: Currently, checklists must be exported individually. To export multiple checklists, repeat the download process for each one.

Q: What data is included in the CSV export?
A: The CSV export includes all checklist questions, response types, required/optional settings, and configuration details. It does not include completed checklist responses or historical data—only the checklist template structure.

Q: Can I edit the exported CSV and re-import it?
A: Yes, you can edit the CSV file and re-import it into First Due. However, maintain the original column structure and data format to ensure successful import. Consult the checklist import documentation for specific requirements.

Q: Where does the file download to?
A: The CSV file downloads to your browser's default download location (typically your Downloads folder). You can change this location in your browser settings.

Q: The exported file name is unclear or generic. Can I rename it?
A: Yes, you can rename the CSV file after download. For better file management, consider updating the checklist name in First Due before exporting to generate more descriptive file names automatically.