There are 14 NIMS management characteristics that form the foundation of the National Incident Management System (NIMS). These characteristics contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of incident management by providing a standardized framework for coordination among agencies and organizations. The 14 characteristics are:
- Common Terminology
- Modular Organization
- Management by Objectives
- Incident Action Planning
- Manageable Span of Control
- Incident Facilities and Locations
- Comprehensive Resource Management
- Integrated Communications
- Establishment and Transfer of Command
- Unified Command
- Chain of Command and Unity of Command
- Accountability
- Dispatch and Deployment
- Information and Intelligence Management
These principles ensure clear communication, organized command structure, resource accountability, and coordinated response efforts across all levels of incident management
