A grounded theory for the performance of temporary disaster response teams

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify and determine the most prevalent factors influencing the performance of temporary disaster response teams.

Design/methodology/approach

After a literature review on team performance and temporary organizations, this study uses the grounded theory approach, based on 13 years of United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination mission data.

Findings

Generic individual skills and a heterogeneous team composition are key. Speed of deployment trumps thoroughness of preparation. Partner organizations should contribute supporting capacities. Necessary leadership skills are simple rather than arcane. Uncontrollable factors must be accepted. Creativity plays only a small role.

Practical implications

Prioritize transferable competencies when selecting team members. Compose teams with regional, but not global, diversity. Reduce team leader training to basic leadership skills.

Originality/value

The intersection between temporary organizations and the performance of multinational disaster response teams is unexplored. Research aimed at increasing disaster response performance can contribute to human lives saved and advance general management and organization studies.

Citation

Wegmann, R.M. (2020), "A grounded theory for the performance of temporary disaster response teams", Journal of Organizational Effectiveness: People and Performance, Vol. 7 No. 2, pp. 155-172. https://doi.org/10.1108/JOEPP-04-2020-0059