Briefing and Debriefing

Summary

This section of the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) outlines the processes of briefing and debriefing within police operations. Briefing prepares police personnel for an operation by providing essential information and guidance, while debriefing identifies lessons learned to enhance future efficiency. Key components of these processes include the structure and objectives of briefings, the use of the IIMARCH model for effective communication, and ensuring media staff receive appropriate instructions. The debriefing stage focuses on organizational learning and incorporates insights from all personnel and partner agencies involved in the incident. A structured approach is recommended to secure a thorough documentation trail for audits and disclosures.

Key principles

• 1Briefings set the operational style and tone, ensuring personnel understand their roles.
• 2Debriefings identify areas for improvement and facilitate organizational learning.
• 3Utilizing clear structures like IIMARCH enhances effective communication during briefings.

Defined terms

IIMARCH

Information, Intention, Method, Administration, Risk assessment, Communications, Human rights and other legal issues.

Gold strategy

A framework outlining the key objectives and overall approach to directing an operation.

Operational order

A document linking basic information regarding an event with the structure of the police response and resource deployment.

Strategic coordinating group

A group that determines how a multi-agency report will be compiled and circulated.

Joint Organisational Learning (JOL)

A process through which organizations collaborate to learn from shared experiences.

Audit and disclosure

The requirement to retain debriefing records for auditing and statutory disclosure purposes.