Command: Messaging

Command: Messaging

Purpose Statement

  1. The messaging feature in the command module enables incident commanders and authorized personnel to send communications to users within the First Due system during emergency operations. This integrated messaging system supports operational coordination by allowing targeted communications to specific users, groups, or organizational units while maintaining incident command workflow continuity.

Background Information

  1. Command module messaging provides real-time communication capabilities without requiring users to leave the incident command interface. The system supports flexible recipient selection, message templates for common communications, and integration with user notification preferences. Messages are delivered based on individual user profile settings and can include text content up to 500 characters. The feature supports both immediate messaging and template creation for standardized communications during incident operations.

Required Permissions

Users must have the appropriate level of the Incident Commands permission configured in their role:
  1. Read: View command boards in read-only mode
  2. Update: Modify command board settings and information
  3. Create: Initiate new command boards and add custom items
  4. Delete: Remove command board elements and complete incidents

Additional permissions may be required for specific functions like messaging and roster access based on integrated modules.

Video 


Step by Step Guide

1. Select Messaging within the options menu.






2. In the pop-up window the following options are available:
  1. 2A.  Select toggle to send to all Users.
  2. 2B.  Type names of Individual Users, Groups, Qualifiers, or Ranks that you wish to send a message.
  3. 2C.  Select from the list of Message Templates if desired 
  4. 2D   Enter the message into the text field (500 character limit).
  5. 2E.  Add an image to the message  (NOTE:  If an image is attached, the message will only be sent in email format).






3. Selecting Send Now (if no attachments have been added) will send the message to all selected Users in the format(s) that they have chosen as their preference within their First Due Profile. 






4. If Send as Email Only is selected, the message will be sent in Email format only regardless of any Users selected preferences. 



5. To save a message as a template:
  1. 5A.  Type the desired message
  2. 5B.  Select Save as Template
  3. 5C.  Enter a Name for the Message Template and Select Save





Best Practices

Do:

  • Keep messages concise and focused on essential information
  • Use clear, professional language appropriate for emergency communications
  • Create templates for frequently used messages
  • Verify recipient selection before sending
  • Consider user notification preferences when selecting recipients

Don't:

  • Send non-essential messages during active incident operations
  • Use "All Users" selection unless absolutely necessary
  • Exceed the 500-character limit
  • Send sensitive information through the messaging system
  • Delete templates that may be needed for future incidents

Tips:

  • Create incident-specific templates at the beginning of operations
  • Use descriptive template names for easy identification
  • Test messaging functionality during training exercises
  • Coordinate with dispatch on message timing and content
  • Consider message delivery methods (app notifications vs. email) based on urgency

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: My message was cut off. What's the character limit?
A: Messages are limited to 500 characters maximum. Keep communications concise and focused on essential information.

Q: Why did some users receive my message by email while others got app notifications?
 A: Message delivery depends on individual user notification preferences set in their profiles. Messages with attachments always go via email.

Q: I selected a template but it overwrote my custom message. Can I recover it?
A: Template selection replaces all text in the message field. Always save important custom messages as templates before selecting other templates.

Q: Can I see if users have read my message?
A: The current messaging system does not provide read receipts. Consider following up with critical communications through other channels if confirmation is needed.

Q: Who can create and delete message templates?
A: Template management depends on user permissions. Check with your administrator if you cannot create or delete templates.

Q: Can I send messages to users from other departments or agencies?
 A: You can only send messages to users within your First Due system. External communications require other methods.

Q: What happens if I send a message to someone who is off duty? A: Messages are delivered based on the recipient's notification preferences, which may include off-duty delivery options depending on their settings.


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