Enhance Targeted Search: Workflow For Search Types

Hey guys! Let's talk about enhancing targeted search workflows, specifically focusing on the search type needed. This is a crucial area, especially in high-volume incident scenarios. We've identified some challenges and opportunities to make this process smoother and more efficient. So, let's dive in and see how we can level up our search game!

The Challenge: Improving Visibility and Usability of "Search Type Needed"

Currently, in our dashboards, we have a "search type needed" field as a button user input for targeted searches. This is awesome in theory, but the challenge is that it's not easily visible, which means it's not being used as much as it could be. Think about it – if something isn't front and center, people are less likely to use it, right? This can lead to inefficiencies and potential delays in critical operations. We need to make this feature more prominent and intuitive for our users. One of the primary things to consider is whether its discoverability is appropriate for new users and even veterans when time is of the essence. Therefore, this step of the overall search workflow is critical for the project. It’s essential that we address this visibility issue to ensure that the right resources are deployed quickly and effectively. Making the “search type needed” field more accessible can significantly streamline the search process, reduce confusion, and ultimately improve outcomes. This improvement isn't just about adding a flashy button; it's about creating a more user-friendly and efficient system that supports the critical work our teams do in the field. By focusing on the usability of this feature, we can empower our users to make quicker, more informed decisions, leading to better results and enhanced safety during incidents. We should also explore different ways to display the search type. For example, consider using a dropdown menu or a checklist instead of a button. These options might make it easier for users to select the appropriate search type quickly and accurately. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that the "search type needed" field is not only visible but also seamlessly integrated into the search workflow, making it an indispensable tool for our teams.

The TX Incident Insight: Leveraging Extra Icons for Specific Search Types

During the TX Incident, a really clever workaround was implemented: extra icons were designated for specific search types. For example, Icon 21 represented Dive Team, Icon 22 signified sUAS, Icon 23 indicated Debris searched (which we already have a waypoint for), and Icon 24 denoted Searches Needing Boats. This is a fantastic example of adapting to the situation and finding a way to communicate search needs visually. However, this approach also highlights a potential problem: icon overload. While effective in the short term, using extra icons can get confusing, especially when dealing with multiple concurrent incidents or complex chains of command. Imagine trying to decipher a map filled with dozens of different icons – it could quickly become overwhelming. It is, however, crucial that we acknowledge and appreciate the resourcefulness shown during the TX Incident. The use of extra icons demonstrates a clear understanding of the need for visual communication and a willingness to adapt existing tools to meet immediate needs. This ingenuity should inform our long-term solutions, helping us develop a more sustainable and scalable system for managing search types. For instance, we might explore the possibility of incorporating a more robust icon management system, allowing users to easily filter and interpret different search types without being overwhelmed by visual clutter. In addition to addressing the challenges of icon overload, we also need to consider the cognitive load associated with interpreting a large number of icons. A simpler, more intuitive system could reduce the risk of misinterpretation and ensure that critical information is communicated effectively. This might involve using a combination of icons, colors, and text labels to provide clear and concise information about the search type needed. By learning from the TX Incident and addressing the potential drawbacks of using extra icons, we can create a more user-friendly and efficient system for managing targeted searches.

The Proposal: A Dedicated Targeted Search or Needs Follow-up Dashboard

Here's where things get exciting! We're thinking about creating a dedicated Targeted Search or general Needs Follow-up Dashboard. Currently, we can filter for Needs Follow-up in Tactical and Strategic views, but it requires several clicks to generate the query you need. Let's be honest, nobody wants to click through a million menus when time is of the essence! We need something more streamlined, something that brings the Essential Elements of Information (EEIs) to the forefront for each incident. Think of it as a command center specifically designed for managing targeted searches and follow-up actions. This dashboard would be adaptable for each incident, meaning we wouldn't have to build it from scratch every time. It's all about efficiency and scalability, guys. But this isn't just about saving clicks; it's about providing a clear, concise, and actionable overview of the current search landscape. Imagine a single pane of glass that shows all ongoing searches, their types, their status, and any required follow-up actions. This would significantly improve situational awareness and coordination, allowing teams to respond more quickly and effectively. The key to this dashboard's success will be its adaptability. We need a system that can be easily configured to highlight the specific EEIs relevant to each incident. This might involve customizable filters, dynamic displays, and user-friendly interfaces. By focusing on flexibility and ease of use, we can ensure that the dashboard remains a valuable tool across a wide range of scenarios. Moreover, a dedicated dashboard could facilitate better communication and collaboration among teams. By providing a shared view of the search landscape, it can help to break down silos and ensure that everyone is on the same page. This is particularly important in large-scale incidents where multiple agencies and teams are involved. Ultimately, the goal is to create a dashboard that not only simplifies the process of managing targeted searches but also enhances overall operational efficiency and effectiveness. By streamlining workflows, improving communication, and providing actionable insights, we can empower our teams to make better decisions and achieve better outcomes.

Visualizing Targeted Search: A View Layer for Search Types

Beyond the dashboard, we're also exploring the idea of creating a view layer that symbolizes Targeted Searches by the type of search it needs. This is all about visual communication and making critical information instantly recognizable. Imagine being able to glance at a map and immediately see which areas require dive teams, sUAS, or other specific resources. This would be a game-changer for situational awareness and resource allocation. A visual representation of search types can significantly enhance the speed and accuracy of decision-making. By using distinct symbols and colors to represent different search needs, we can provide a clear and intuitive overview of the operational landscape. This is particularly valuable in complex incidents where multiple searches are ongoing simultaneously. Moreover, a view layer can facilitate better communication among teams. By providing a shared visual language for search types, it can help to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that critical information is not lost in translation. This can be especially important in situations where teams from different agencies or organizations are working together. In addition to improving situational awareness and communication, a view layer can also support more effective resource allocation. By visually highlighting areas where specific search types are needed, it can help to ensure that resources are deployed to the right locations at the right time. This can lead to significant improvements in operational efficiency and effectiveness. The key to creating an effective view layer will be careful consideration of the symbols, colors, and other visual cues used to represent different search types. We need to ensure that these elements are easily distinguishable and that they convey the intended information clearly and concisely. This might involve conducting user testing and gathering feedback to refine the design of the view layer. Ultimately, the goal is to create a visual representation of search types that is both informative and intuitive, empowering our teams to make better decisions and achieve better outcomes.

Integrating with Field Maps "Tasks" Workflow

Of course, we need to think about how all of this will (or won't) fit into the Field Maps "Tasks" workflow. Integration is key to a seamless user experience. We don't want to create a system that's isolated from the rest of our tools. We need to ensure that everything works together harmoniously. This means carefully considering how our new dashboard and view layer will interact with existing workflows and systems. It might involve developing new APIs, modifying existing interfaces, or creating entirely new integration points. The key is to approach this with a holistic perspective, considering the entire user journey from start to finish. We need to think about how users will access the new features, how they will interact with them, and how the data they generate will flow into other systems. The goal is to create a seamless and intuitive experience that minimizes friction and maximizes efficiency. Moreover, integration is not just about technical compatibility; it's also about workflow alignment. We need to ensure that the new features fit naturally into the existing processes and procedures used by our teams. This might involve conducting workflow analysis, gathering user feedback, and developing training materials to support the adoption of the new features. By carefully considering both the technical and workflow aspects of integration, we can ensure that our new tools are not only effective but also easy to use and seamlessly integrated into the daily operations of our teams. This will ultimately lead to greater efficiency, improved situational awareness, and better outcomes. Ultimately, a successful integration with Field Maps "Tasks" workflow will require a collaborative effort involving developers, users, and other stakeholders. By working together, we can create a system that is truly aligned with the needs of our teams and that empowers them to achieve their mission.

Alternatives Considered: The Limitations of Extra Icons

We've also considered the alternative of simply leaving things as they are and letting people use Extra Icons. While this is a viable option in the short term, it has significant limitations. As we discussed earlier, extra icons can get very confusing, especially when dealing with multiple incidents or complex chains of command. It's like trying to find a needle in a haystack – the more icons there are, the harder it is to find the specific one you need. This can lead to delays, errors, and ultimately, compromised operations. We need a more sustainable and scalable solution, one that doesn't rely on a patchwork of extra icons. A key consideration is the cognitive load associated with interpreting a large number of icons. The more icons there are, the more mental effort is required to process and understand the information being conveyed. This can be particularly problematic in high-stress situations where time is of the essence. Moreover, the use of extra icons can lead to inconsistencies in how different search types are represented. This can create confusion and make it difficult to share information effectively across teams and agencies. A standardized system for representing search types is essential for ensuring clear and consistent communication. While the use of extra icons may have been a necessary workaround in the past, it is not a long-term solution. We need a more robust and scalable system that addresses the limitations of this approach. This might involve developing a new icon set, creating a more intuitive user interface, or implementing a more sophisticated system for managing search types. By moving beyond the use of extra icons, we can create a more efficient, effective, and user-friendly system for managing targeted searches.

Timeline and Priority: A Phased Approach

This is both a short-term, incident-specific challenge and a longer-term project for Winter 2026. We need to address the immediate needs while also laying the groundwork for a more comprehensive solution in the future. This calls for a phased approach, tackling the most pressing issues first while keeping the long-term goals in mind. This might involve implementing quick fixes and workarounds in the short term, such as refining the use of extra icons or improving the visibility of the "search type needed" field. In the medium term, we can focus on developing the dedicated Targeted Search or Needs Follow-up Dashboard and the view layer for search types. This will require careful planning, design, and development, as well as user testing and feedback. In the long term, we can focus on integrating these features with other systems, such as Field Maps "Tasks" workflow, and exploring new technologies and approaches for managing targeted searches. A phased approach allows us to deliver value quickly while also ensuring that we are building a sustainable and scalable solution for the future. It also allows us to adapt and adjust our plans based on feedback and experience, ensuring that we are building the right solution for our users. By breaking the project down into manageable phases, we can reduce the risk of failure and increase the likelihood of success. Moreover, a phased approach allows us to prioritize the most critical needs and address them first, ensuring that we are delivering the greatest value in the shortest amount of time. This is particularly important in situations where resources are limited and time is of the essence. Ultimately, a phased approach is the most effective way to tackle complex projects like this, ensuring that we are building a robust, scalable, and user-friendly system for managing targeted searches.

Impact and Importance: Closing the Loop on Searches

The priority impact is P0 - not time sensitive, but that doesn't mean it's not important! If we build the right information product and view of the data, it will help both the field and the ICP close the loop on searches needing follow-up in the future. This is about ensuring that no search falls through the cracks and that every effort is made to locate and assist those in need. This has a direct impact on the safety and well-being of individuals and communities. By improving the efficiency and effectiveness of our search and rescue operations, we can save lives and reduce suffering. Moreover, closing the loop on searches is also about building trust and confidence in our systems. When people know that their needs are being addressed and that their safety is a priority, they are more likely to cooperate with authorities and participate in rescue efforts. This can significantly improve the outcomes of search and rescue operations. The ability to track searches needing follow-up is also crucial for accountability and learning. By analyzing the data on these searches, we can identify areas where our processes can be improved and ensure that we are providing the best possible service to the public. This continuous improvement cycle is essential for ensuring that our search and rescue operations remain effective and efficient. Ultimately, closing the loop on searches is about more than just ticking a box; it's about fulfilling our responsibility to protect and serve our communities. By building the right information products and views of the data, we can empower our teams to make better decisions, respond more effectively, and ensure that no one is left behind. This is a critical mission, and we are committed to achieving it.

So, what do you guys think? Let's keep the conversation going and work together to make this happen! We're on the right track to create a more efficient and effective targeted search workflow.