When fluid structures fail: A social network approach to multi-team systems’ effectiveness

Purpose This paper aims to examine the dynamics of the communication network established within a multi-team system (MTS) and analyzes its implications for the MTS processes, emergent states and performance during a search and rescue operation. Design/methodology/approach The authors take a bifocal approach and combine both network analysis metrics and a qualitative analysis of the message content in addressing the research questions. Findings The findings illustrate the emergence of a decentralized network and that the extent to which decentralization is conducive toward MTS performance also depends on the density of the communication lines established among the component teams (CTs) and the communication content. Low density of the communication network was associated with impaired MTS processes and low effectiveness. Node centrality metrics indicate a limited connectivity between the leader of the operation and the MTS CTs, also with negative impact on MTS performance. Whereas, informal CTs become central to the MTS communication network and positively influence MTS performance during the last episodes of the mission. Originality/value This paper is among the first to use a social network approach to the study of MTS functioning and illustrates how the fluid structure of the MTS alters communication networks, which in turn influence other MTS processes, emergent states and overall performance.