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InteragencyCommunicationNetworksDuringEmergencies.docx

Interagency Communication Networks During Emergencies: Boundary Spanners in Multiagency Coordination

Naim Kapucu

First Published June 1, 2006 Research Article

https://doi-org.ezproxy.liberty.edu/10.1177/0275074005280605

Article information 

Abstract

This article examines the problem of effective interagency communication among organizations and the role of information technologies to achieve effective communication and decision-making goals in emergencies. It explores what factors contribute to effective interorganizational communication and decision making and what factors inhibit their development. The theoretical framework draws on the literature of emergency communication and social capital, with a particular focus on communication and decision making under conditions of uncertainty. The study applies this framework to study the relationships that emerged among public, private, and non-profit organizations following the World Trade Center disaster on September 11, 2001, in New York City. The article indicates the importance of developing a strong communication system with other organizations before a disaster occurs to establish appropriate communication in which effective interagency coordination will take place at the time of a disaster.

Keywords

interorganizational communication , emergency communication , social capital , boundary spanners , network organizations , crisis and emergency management

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