Ch.8-Interorganizational Communication Networks

Interorganizational Communication Networks “are the enduring transactions, flows, and linkages that occur among or between organizations.” (265) When I think of interorganizational communications networks, I think of a task force. In the book a task force was described as multi-agencies or corporations working together for the overall good and benefit of something else. The “Hillsborough River Greenways Task Force in Tampa, Florida,” was an example of a collaborative group of agencies consisting of “environmental activists, scientists, land developers, and citizens,” all working together concerning the health of the Hillsborough River. (266) While each member came from a different agency, they were able to work as a group to solve a community problem.

Recently, I developed the Fireworks Response Task Force to address the needs of the community and safety issues regarding the use of fireworks before, during, and after the fourth of July. In light of the tremendous fires Santa Cruz County has suffered the task force has been invaluable. The task force consists of local fire department members, local law enforcement, and State Parks Rangers, patrolling together to educate, enforce, and spread the message about the laws against fireworks and other destructive behavior. The collaboration of the multi-agencies involved have helped to establish goals for the task force, determine key enforcement points, and address how the problem of fireworks should be addressed (no tolerance vs. discretion). Overall, the team has been successful because everybody involved has worked well and is an active participant in insuring safety in the county.