Task force: A management technique that produces quality decisions and employee commitment

Abstract

A task force is a technique that can be used by the dietitian-manager to develop solutions for specific, identified problems Because employees are directly involved in the decision-making process, better solutions—ones that are also more acceptable to the work group—result. To implement a task force, management must plan the strategy: Select a facilitator, explain the concept and problem to the work group, select task force participants, and make meeting arrangements. The task force meetings should be structured to maximize efficiency and productivity. The plan of action is developed by the task force members; all decisions are based upon input from the work group. Successful implement ation of the solutions is the responsibility of the task force. Applications for task forces in both the clinical and food management areas are numerous and result in both tangible and intangible benefits. J Am Diet Assoc 88:52, 1988.