Which planning approach focuses on interactions within a jurisdiction?

The correct choice centers on Horizontal Integration Planning, which emphasizes the coordination and collaboration among various stakeholders and agencies at the same level within a jurisdiction. This approach is essential for creating a cohesive emergency management strategy, as it facilitates communication and resource sharing among departments and organizations that operate at similar tiers of government or service—such as local police, fire, and emergency medical services.

By fostering better interactions among these entities, Horizontal Integration Planning ensures a more unified response to emergencies, helping to mitigate overlaps and gaps in service that could hinder response and recovery efforts. This collaborative environment is instrumental in building partnerships, sharing information, and developing comprehensive plans that reflect the diverse needs and capabilities within a jurisdiction.

In contrast, Vertical Integration Planning typically involves the coordination between different levels of government (local, state, federal), focusing more on compliance and guidance from the top down. Operational Planning and Tactical Planning are more narrowly focused on specific operations or immediate tactical responses rather than broad multi-agency collaboration within a single jurisdiction. Thus, the emphasis of Horizontal Integration Planning on inter-agency cooperation differentiates it as the correct answer.