Incident Planning and the 8-Step Model

During an emergency situation (the 5% aspect of the PIO’s job), you will be operating under ICS. The Incident Planning Process — a crucial component of ICS — is described on the visual next to the 8-Step Model graphic.

You will notice that both incident planning and the 8-step model include processes for:

  • Assessing the situation or developing situational awareness.
  • Setting goals and objectives.
  • Creating a plan.
  • Implementing the plan.
  • Evaluating and modifying the plan, as needed.
The Operations “O”; The Operations “O” consists of the phases 2 through 5 of the Planning “P.” Phase 2: Establish Incident Objectives. Activities include UCG develops/updates incident objects and command and general staff meeting. Phase 3: Develop the Plan. Activities include prepare for operation tactics meeting, operations tactics meeting, and prepare for planning meeting. Phase 4: Prepare and Disseminate the Plan. Activities include planning meeting and IAP preparation and approval. Phase 5: Execute Evaluate and Revise the Plan, this is where the new operation period begins. Activities include operations briefing and executive plan and assess progress. This cycle of planning and operations, informed by ongoing situational awareness, is repeated each operational period.
1. Assess Current Situation 2. Set Communication Goals 3. Identify Intended Audiences 4. Develop and Pretest Messages 5. Select Channels and Activities 6. Develop an Action Plan 7. Develop and Pretest Materials 8. Implement, Evaluate, and Modify Plan