Using Rico is mostly self-explanatory. However, understanding a few key ideas upfront will make using Rico smoother from the start. Here they are:
1. Introduction
Rico is an online workflow for creating resource consent applications/assessment of environmental effects. Rico is designed to take care of the repetitive, tedious work in applications and leave the planning expertise to you.
Rico does add some structure to the planning process, but you’re in the driver's seat. We have been careful to keep your freedom to; write planning assessments your way, include/exclude points as you see fit and complete the workflow in the order you want.
2. How applications are structured on Rico
You can see how Rico is structured . Everyone tends to structure applications differently so use this overview like a map to identify where the various sections you’re used to writing fit in. There will likely be some differences, but you’ll still be able to construct assessments for each section as you wish.
3. How Rico is different to Word
You’ll most likely be used to writing reports in MS Word. In this context, you can see what the finished report looks like as you go. Rico is slightly different. Content is created in the app first, then output to word.
This can feel different at the start, but you’ll become used to it with a little time. To speed this up, we suggest outputting documents early and often on your first application to learn how the app lines up with the output. Referring to a sample AEE (attached to introduction email) can also help you get your bearings.
4. How reports are put into your custom company formatting
Custom company formatting is added after downloading a report from Rico. We’ve developed a quick way to do this within MS Word. Simply download a document, then follow to step through automatically add custom Cover Pages, Headers and Footers, Fonts/Styles etc. in a couple of minutes. To do this, you’ll need the MS Word template file we have set up for you.
Need Help?
General guidance for completing various Rico sections is available in the Rico Help Centre .
If you can’t see what you’re looking for, we’d be more than happy to help in any way we can if you send an email to .