National Incident Management System Incident Resource Inventory System (NIMS-IRIS) Update Release – Version 2.1 
 
The Incident Management Systems Integration Division releases an Update of the National Incident Management System Incident Resource Inventory System (NIMS-IRIS Version 2.1) to enhance the tool’s capabilities to include a NIMS-IRIS data backup feature.  
 
As part of our Nation’s efforts to strengthen resource management in line with the National Incident Management System (NIMS), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Incident Management Systems Integration Division developed the NIMS Incident Resource Inventory System (NIMS-IRIS) tool to assist emergency responders with inventorying resources.  IRIS Version 2.0 was released on 17 September 2007, allowing emergency responders to enter resources based on FEMA-Typed and user defined typed resources.  Users can select specific resources for mutual aid purposes based on mission requirements, the capabilities of resources and response time.   
 
This release (Version 2.1) enhances the existing system by providing: 
 Full backup and restore capability that will allow the user to backup their NIMS-IRIS data and settings to recover from data loss. 

 An Integrated context sensitive help function to include tool tips for input fields and action buttons.  This feature (available on the top right tab) provides the user with specific guidance relevant to the screen being used.  

 Advanced search features allows the user to search multiple fields simultaneously.  Inventoried resources can be edited directly from the search page. 

 General usability improvements to include: links for editing key fields associated with a resource; capability to upload files that contain processing instructions for a resource; and improvements to screen flow and information presentation. 


 
If you have previously installed NIMS-IRIS, update the program by downloading the IRIS Patch file from http://www.fema.gov/emergency/nims/rm/iris.shtm. The download will automatically update your legacy version and preserve your data.  
 
If you do not have a previously released version of NIMS-IRIS, download the IRIS Program new installation file from http://www.fema.gov/emergency/nims/rm/iris.shtm. The download will setup a fully updated new installation of NIMS-IRIS.    
 
Requests for technical support or a CD of NIMS-IRIS can be made to IRIS@NIMSSC.net. Requests for NIMS-IRIS usability or deployment training can be submitted to this address as well. 
 
User feedback regarding the tool is welcomed and can be submitted to IRIS@NIMSSC.net. This feedback will assist the Incident Management Systems Integration Division with maintenance and continued tool improvements.