I am exploring the differences in the decision making quality between pre-formed teams and those teams pulled together at short notice, that is, ad hoc teams.
Although it is thought that pre-formed teams are superior to ad hoc teams, there has been no detailed study on this. Several fire agencies have implemented pre-formed teams – this study will provide important information on the possible differences between these teams and ad hoc teams.
Given the logistical challenges of organising IMT personnel to respond to fires in parts of Australia, it may not be feasible to use a pre-formed team. This study will investigate ways of transferring some of the possible advantages of pre-formed teams to ad hoc teams. For example, a procedure that helps rapidly acquaint members with each other and their abilities in the early phases of establishing an IMT for a particular incident.
