Integration is the act of forming into a functioning or unified whole (Merriam-Webster Online dictionary). Prior to Restructuring in 2003, we had merged but not integrated. In the Restructure we achieved some integration by combining like functions together in divisions and offices. Examples: we had licensing & permitting in 3 divisions and an office. But this only gets us part way to full integration – teaming, i.e., working in cross-functional groups, gets us the rest of the way.

When you look at our Agency-level and DOI plans, a lot of our work is cross-functional, i.e., cuts across more than one DOI (remember each DOI has a different function, e.g., enforcement, research, habitat & species management, etc.). So we want staff available to work on whatever work is most needed and that they could contribute to, in effect, making them available to the entire organization. Teams are an important way to do this.

That said teamwork is more than just being on a formal team. Teamwork is also about all of us working together to plan and to implement because we can do a better job if we bring all FWC’s expertise to bear. We want to use our multi-disciplinary strengths to create better decisions and better results.

As you make decisions, think “who else other than me is affected by these decisions and who among those affected needs to be aware of or involved in them?” Here’s the checklist:

• Do you need the assistance of others? Do others need your assistance?
• Does your work significantly affect the work of others?
• Do others depend on your output?
• Has everyone affected by your work been informed and involved in the planning process?

Figure out who you need to integrate with and do it. Use DOI operational priorities as a guide.