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handle delicate or controversial topics more readily. Smaller committees
are also easier to assemble for meetings.

Larger task forces can be subdivided into areas of interest, and, if well-

organized, have the ability to cover more territory in a shorter period of
time. Larger groups can form committees and develop additional meeting
schedules for hearing input, developing strategy, and making
recommendations. Having a predetermined number of members helps
guide the organizational process for the task force and provides a guideline
for realistic achievement.

The first person selected often is the chairperson, whose particular skills
should include the ability to organize the individual members into a
working group. The selection of members should be based on the
directives or goals outlined when the need for a task force is determined.

Criteria may include interests, skills, and knowledge needed by the group;
access to information and resources; and representation of organizations,
geographic areas, community groups, and diverse viewpoints. The ability
to provide financial support may be a consideration in some task forces.

Consideration particularly should be given to making the task force a
cohesive work unit (i.e., a “team”), selecting people who work well

together and choosing members the chairperson may prefer to have on the
committee. It is important to develop a group that is enthusiastic, has
unity of purpose, is committed to seeing things happen, and is willing to
explore a number of options.

Once a decision is made to appoint a task force or committee, its overall
purpose and scope should be clearly defined and understood by each
member. The responsibilities of membership should be clearly stated. It is
important that the members know what is expected of the group, as well as
from each individual, so that they can work effectively. Appropriate
reporting procedures should be specified so that the rest of the

organization knows what to expect from the task force. Frequently, an
economic development professional will need to serve as technical advisor
and facilitator to the task force. It is important to inform the members

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