Which concept preserves each agency's authority while enabling joint operation?

• A. Unified Command
• B. Incident Action Planning
• C. Integrated Communications
• D. Span of Control

Answer: (A)

This item tests how multiple agencies coordinate without giving up their own authority. Unified Command provides a single, joint command structure where all participating agencies contribute to leadership and decision making while each agency retains authority over its own personnel, policies, and resources. This arrangement enables a unified approach to setting incident objectives and directing operations, while preserving each agency’s independence. Incident Action Planning is about developing and updating the plan and objectives for operations; Integrated Communications ensures interoperable messaging and data sharing; Span of Control is about keeping the number of direct reports within manageable limits. Therefore, unified command best fits the requirement to preserve agency authority while enabling joint operation.