Setting Up a CAD System

A CAD system is a web-based tool that simulates the dispatch and records systems used by real emergency services:

• Dispatch management: Logs active calls, assigns units, and tracks their status.
• Records management: Stores civilian profiles, vehicle records, warrants, and incident reports.
• Communication support: Gives dispatchers and officers a shared real-time view of active operations.

CAD systems are optional but significantly improve the realism and organization of departments that run structured patrols and events.

Several CAD systems are designed specifically for ERLC and FiveM-style communities:

• Sonoran CAD: The most widely used. Offers a free tier with paid plans for advanced features. Supports custom departments, unit management, and API integrations.
• Centralized CAD: A community-developed option with active support and ERLC-focused features.
• Custom CAD: Some larger servers build internal tools. Only practical if you have development resources available.

For most ERLC communities, Sonoran CAD's free tier is sufficient to begin. Evaluate paid features only after your team is actively using the system.

Once your CAD is set up, configure it to match your actual department:

• Create departments that match your Discord server structure — police, fire, EMS, civilian.
• Add all active members with their correct ranks and call signs.
• Set up unit identifiers (unit numbers or call signs) that match what members use on radio.
• Configure penal codes or municipal codes relevant to your server's legal framework.

A CAD system only adds value if members actually use it during operations:

• Require all members to log into CAD before going on duty during official patrols.
• Designate a dispatcher to manage the CAD board during events — do not expect officers to manage it while responding to calls.
• Set a standard procedure: unit receives call → accepts in CAD → reports on scene → closes call after resolution.
• Include CAD usage in your training program so all new members know how to use it before their first patrol.

CAD systems generate data that can improve your department's operations:

• Review call volume and response times after each patrol to identify bottlenecks.
• Check for units consistently operating without signing in — address the behavior directly.
• Use incident reports to identify recurring in-game locations or situations that need operational guidance.

CAD systems fall out of sync with your server's actual structure if not maintained:

• Update member records when members join, change rank, or leave.
• Archive old records rather than deleting them — historical data can be useful for pattern review.
• Assign a CAD administrator whose responsibility is keeping the system current. This should be a staff or command role, not a general member task.