Unity of Command
Examples
During a measles outbreak, the Epidemiology Unit Leader (who reports to the Operations Section Chief) may have to report findings to the Planning Section staff who will input data into a geographical information system mapping program. However, if the Planning Section wishes to change how the Epidemiology Unit collects or reports information, it must go through the Operations Section Chief, as the Epidemiology Unit Leader takes orders from that person, rather than the Planning Section.
The ICS utilizes a unity of command approach, which establishes a clearly delineated authority and hierarchy, where there is one person clearly responsible for the achievement of each objective. To assure this, each person involved in the emergency response takes orders from and reports to only one person.