Southern Region established an 8 month IFPS Implementation Plan based on an aggressive training program for forecasters, beginning with a grid-based approach then introducing the matrix editors. This implementation approach was based on research from site experiences. Another focus of the Plan will be the IFPS' staffing requirements and how we have determined minimum staffing to be 2 forecasters on duty 24 hours a day. Additionally, part of the Plan was a Regional Advanced IFPS Course held at Southern Region Headquarters and presented by forecasters, providing vital operational knowledge and information not covered at the NWS Training Center Course.