A basic ICS operating guideline is that the person at the top of the organization is responsible for a task until that responsibility is delegated to a subordinate position. The ICS organizational chart is a graphic representation of the incident, including: Positions and functions activated. Chain of command. Reporting relationships.

On the other hand, the ICS organizational chart refers to the visual illustration of hierarchical divisions of personnel's designations and responsibilities within an organization. By standardizing titles and defining reporting relationships, an ICS org chart eradicates confusion created by several unclear chains of command.