This interactive computer-based course introduces you to the Communications and Information Management component of the National Incident Management System (NIMS). NIMS provides a consistent nationwide template to enable all government, private-sector, and nongovernmental organizations to work together during domestic incidents. Effective emergency management and incident response activities rely on flexible communications and information systems that provide a common operating picture to emergency management/response personnel and their affiliated organizations. Establishing and maintaining a common operating picture and ensuring accessibility and interoperability are the principal goals of the Communications and Information Management component of NIMS. Properly planned, established, and applied communications enable the dissemination of information among command and support elements and, as appropriate, cooperating agencies and organizations.

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Identify the components of NIMS Communications and Information Management.
• Identify capabilities required to achieve effective communications and information management.
• Assess the communications and information management capability of your jurisdiction or agency.
• Describe processes and forms for managing incident information flow.
• Identify strategies for continually improving communications and information management systems and maintaining their readiness.