ABOUT BOOK

"Samhandling is considered as a key solution when asymmetry occurs. An ~expectation of seamless samhandling can be a special challenge to High Reliability ~Organizations ~which have mechanistic traditions in common, i.e. an assumption of ~linearity and routine-based work. In this chapter, a model to operationalize samhandling ~is presented. This conceptual study is based on observational data from an ~inter-organizational exercise. A full-scale exercise of a train accident on the Öresund ~Bridge between Sweden and Denmark was observed. The overall goal of the exercise ~was to effectively solve the situation. However, different routines contributed to ~confusion and misunderstandings in the meeting on how to act. The exercise was ~dominated by a focus on linearity within the internal organizations, which hindered ~samhandling. In order to conceptualize samhandling, a three-level model is presented. ~It consists of “sequential samhandling”, i.e. a simplified, assembly-line type work ~process, “parallel samhandling”, i.e. carrying out tasks simultaneously, and “synchronous ~samhandling”, i.e. tasks performed at the same time in a spontaneous and natural ~way. A three-level samhandling model such as the one presented can be a useful ~tool for managing disasters."