What type of decision-making structure does NIMS advocate for during incidents?

NIMS promotes a collaborative decision-making structure during incidents, which emphasizes the importance of teamwork, communication, and information sharing among various organizations and stakeholders involved in incident response. This collaborative approach is essential for effective coordination, ensuring that all parties can contribute their resources and expertise toward a common goal of public safety and recovery.

In this framework, various agencies, jurisdictions, and disciplines work together, leveraging their unique capabilities and perspectives. This collaboration helps improve situational awareness and fosters a comprehensive response that can adapt to evolving situations. The appreciation for diverse inputs allows for more informed decision-making and a coordinated effort that can address complex challenges effectively.

While other structures like centralized, decentralized, or hierarchical have their place in different contexts, they may not fully capture the level of cooperation and shared responsibility that NIMS advocates. The emphasis on collaboration ensures that all relevant voices are heard and that decisions benefit from a holistic understanding of the incident at hand.