This monograph examines the problem of decoupling between the commander and joint battle staff of a joint task force, and its antidote, networking. Effective networking between the commander and staff enables both the commander and joint staff to appraise the current operational theater and forecast the future theater for the command. Effective networking of the commander and joint battle staff is achieved through a shared image of the joint area of operations. This shared image is achieved by the integration of the staff through teamwork and an interactive flow of information within the joint command post. The achievement of mutual situational awareness of the joint area of operations reduces the amount of uncertainty confronting both the commander and staff when making decisions in the execution of joint operations. As a result, the JTF commander and staff can then focus combat power effectively to accomplish assigned missions. Interactive information flow, teamwork and team decision making offer a solution to the problem of decoupling between the commander and battle staff of a joint task force. Through the use of teamwork and interactive information flow, an ad hoc organization like a JTF can avoid operational failure and missed opportunities as the commander and staff become networked through a shared image of the operational theater.

ADA 314931 Approved for public release; Distribution is unlimited. The opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the student-authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College or any other governmental agency. (References to these studies should include the foregoing statement.)