Towards an understanding of multiteam systems: Theorizing about identification, leadership, and communication in an emergency response system

Elizabeth Ann Williams, Purdue University

Abstract

Complex events often call for response by multiple organizations and for interdependent activity among them. These groupings of interdependent organizations have been called multiteam systems (MTSs) and provide a compelling context in which to study identification, leadership, and communication because of the large web of relationships that exist within these systems. This study examined these constructs in one specific MTS: an emergency response system. Participants were from 8 component teams that were part of an emergency response system in a Midwestern county. Questionnaires, semi-structured-interviews, and an examination of the few organizational documents that existed probed the interplay among identification, leadership and communication. Findings suggest that (a) identification is an important element as MTSs coordinate their activities, but there is a lack of system identification and individuals instead rely on their strong identification with their profession, team, and organization as they act as a system member; (b) leadership is paramount for MTS coordination as individuals rely on their leaders for guidance and to facilitate communication between teams, and (c) communication between teams is for the most part done among leaders. These findings shed light on the interplay between identifications, leadership and communication in multiteam systems.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Connaughton, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Management|Communication|Organization Theory

COinS