The ICS Planning Process Exercise: A New Exercise Tool

Abstract

ABSTRACT The authors propose a structurally different kind of exercise where the participants not only become familiar with the plans being exercised but also have the time to learn their positions within the Incident Command System (ICS) response structure. The ICS Planning Process Exercise (IPPE) also allows for contingency plan validation. In the more familiar exercise types—tabletop exercises, functional or field exercises, and full-scale exercises—players come together for a period of time to execute the exercise. There is usually no time allowed for detailed reading of the plans or anything but the most cursory training for their assigned responsibilities within the response structure. The IPPE is an exercise conducted over a period of weeks or months at a reduced cost to the companies and agencies involved, with time built in for training and contingency plan familiarization. Moreover, assumptions made by the contingency plans or during the other style of exercises are validated or challenged as needed. The IPPE is intended to test plans and train people. The primary goals of the IPPE are to validate plans, to become familiar with plans, and to familiarize ICS personnel with their assigned positions such as Section Chief, Division Supervisor, Situation Unit Leader or any other identified responsibilities.