Support

How do I import the Excel template?

Download the Excel template from this website, fill in your team information, and then either:

• Save the file and import it directly through the app's settings
• Upload the file to Google Drive and use the QR code scanner in the app (recommended for teams)

How do I share the template with my team using QR codes?

Step 1: Prepare Your Template

1. Download the ICS NOW template and fill in your team's resources, personnel, and settings
2. Follow the format structure provided in the template carefully

Step 2: Upload to Google Drive

1. Upload your completed template to a public folder in Google Drive
2. Right-click the file and select "Share"
3. Change permissions to "Anyone with the link can view"
4. Copy the sharing link

Step 3: Generate QR Code

1. Use a free QR code generator (like qr-code-generator.com)
2. Paste your Google Drive link
3. Generate and download the QR code image

Step 4: Distribute to Team

1. Share the QR code with your team (email, print, post, etc.)
2. Team members open ICS NOW and tap "Import Resources"
3. Scan the QR code to automatically import all settings

⚠️ Important: Updating Your Template

When updating your roster or resources, edit the existing file in Google Drive. Do NOT delete and re-upload the file, as this will change the link and invalidate your QR code.

What is the Excel template used for?

The Excel template allows you to quickly configure your team settings, including:

• Team name and position codes
• Default resources and personnel
• Email settings and file naming preferences
• Default incident information

Can I use the app offline?

Yes! ICS NOW is designed to work offline. All your forms and data are stored locally on your device. You can create, edit, and manage forms without an internet connection. An internet connection is only required for emailing forms.

How do I email completed forms?

After completing a form, tap the email icon or swipe right on the form in the list. The app will generate a PDF and open your device's email client with the form attached. Make sure you've configured your email settings in the app first.

How do I manage resources in ICS NOW?

ICS NOW provides flexible resource management to track personnel, equipment, and assets. Resources can be imported from your Excel template or added manually.

Importing Resources

1. Fill in your personnel roster in the Excel template (Name, Position, Home Agency, Phone)
2. Import via QR code scan or file upload in Settings → Import Resources
3. All resources are automatically saved to your device
4. Update the Excel file anytime and re-import to sync changes

Adding Resources Manually

1. Open Settings → Manage Resources
2. Tap the "Add Resource" button
3. Enter: Name, Position, Home Agency, and Phone Number
4. Save to add to your resource list

Editing or Deleting Resources

1. Go to Settings → Manage Resources
2. View your complete resource list
3. Tap any resource to edit its information
4. Swipe left on a resource to delete it

Using Resources in a Form

When you create or open an ICS-214 form, your resources from "Manage Resources" are automatically imported and available to select.

1. Create or open an ICS-214 form
2. Go to the "Resources" tab
3. Check the boxes next to personnel assigned to this specific incident
4. Selected resources will appear on your generated PDF
5. You can add or modify resources within the individual form if needed
6. Each form can have different resource selections

💡 How It Works: Resources are managed centrally in Settings → Manage Resources. When you create a form, those resources are automatically imported. Simply check the boxes for personnel assigned to that specific incident.

Can I customize the PDF filename?

Yes! Go to Settings → Email & File Settings to configure your file naming format. You can include various components like date, position code, form number, and custom text. You can also create multiple saved formats for different teams.

What ICS forms are supported?

Currently, ICS NOW supports the ICS-214 (Activity Log) form. Additional ICS forms are planned for future releases based on user feedback and demand.

How do I backup my data?

All form data is stored locally on your device. To backup your data:

• Email forms to yourself as PDFs
• Use your device's standard backup features (iCloud for iOS, Google Backup for Android)

Where is my data stored?

All data is stored locally on your device in an encrypted database. No data is sent to external servers unless you explicitly email a form. See our Privacy Policy for more details.

How do I delete a form?

In the Forms list, swipe left on any form to reveal the delete option. Confirm the deletion to permanently remove the form from your device.