Being a forensic supervisor can be an incredibly rewarding role, but it comes with its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles? Supervising multiple forensic units simultaneously.
Supervising multiple forensic units is no small feat. It requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and the ability to balance competing priorities. That’s why we’ve brought in Larry Stringham, a retired Forensic & Evidence Supervisor from the Cape Coral Police Department, to share his insights on this very topic.
Featuring Guest Expert: Larry Stringham
Larry, who now serves on the Board of Directors for the International Association for Identification (IAI) and is the Conference Planner for the Florida Division of the IAI, has decades of experience in the forensic field.
Larry is also a respected instructor, teaching forensic training courses. He has collaborated with Gap Science on an eCourse titled “Winning Over Your Chain-of-Command”, where you’ll learn valuable tips on getting your purchase requests approved and increasing your forensic unit’s resources. Today, he dives into the strategies for effectively managing multiple forensic teams, offering expert advice on optimizing workflows, communicating across units, and staying ahead in a fast-paced environment.
Larry’s presentation, “Prioritizing When You Supervise Multiple Forensic Units”, was a highlight of our 2022 Forensic Supervisor Success Summit where he shares his expert strategies for transforming forensic unit culture and leadership.
Watch the full episode of Forensics Unfiltered and find more in-depth interviews in our Forensic Supervisor Success Summit All Access Pass:
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1. Understand the Importance of Prioritizing Your Units
When supervising multiple forensic units, it’s essential to understand the unique needs of each team and how they contribute to the overall success of the department. By establishing clear priorities for each unit, you can ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and that each team receives the support they need.
Forensic supervisors must have a keen sense of what’s urgent and what can wait. You’ll need to make tough decisions about which tasks require immediate attention and which can be delegated or deferred. The key is to balance the needs of all teams while maintaining overall productivity.
2. Set Clear Expectations and Roles Across Units
One of the most common struggles for forensic supervisors is defining roles and responsibilities across multiple teams. In a busy forensic department, it’s easy for confusion to arise. Supervisors need to set clear expectations for what each unit is responsible for and how they will work together.
By developing detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for each forensic unit, you create a structured environment where everyone knows their role. When teams are clear on their responsibilities, they can focus on their tasks without unnecessary distractions or overlaps.
3. Streamline Communication to Avoid Overload
Effective communication is essential when supervising multiple forensic units. It’s easy for messages to get lost or misinterpreted when managing several teams at once. Supervisors should implement systems that streamline communication, such as regular check-ins, task management tools, or centralized messaging platforms.
Setting up clear lines of communication helps you stay connected with each team while ensuring no unit feels neglected. Regular updates from your teams allow you to stay on top of progress, making it easier to identify potential bottlenecks and adjust priorities as needed.
4. Implement Time Management Strategies
Time management is a core skill for any supervisor, but when supervising multiple forensic units, it becomes even more crucial. Balancing responsibilities across several teams can be overwhelming, but by using effective time management strategies, supervisors can maintain control.
One strategy is using the Time Blocking Method, where you dedicate specific chunks of time to focus on each team or project. This can help reduce the risk of multitasking fatigue and ensure that you’re giving each unit the attention it deserves.
Related: “4 Ways to Save Time During Your Work Week“
5. Focus on Team Motivation and Morale
When managing multiple forensic units, it’s vital to motivate your teams and keep morale high. The nature of forensic work can be stressful, especially in high-pressure environments, so it’s important to offer regular encouragement and recognize hard work.
You can inspire motivation through positive reinforcement, team-building activities, and recognizing accomplishments. Regularly checking in with your teams and providing constructive feedback can also go a long way in keeping them engaged and motivated.
6. Leverage Technology for Better Efficiency
Supervising multiple forensic units means juggling a lot of moving parts, but technology can help streamline operations. There are numerous tools available that can assist with task management, case tracking, and data collection.
For example, using a Case Management System (CMS) or Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) can help keep track of cases and evidence across various units, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks. Supervisors can use these systems to monitor progress, assign tasks, and oversee workflows efficiently.
Related: “One Thing Seriously Impacting the Workflow of Your Forensic Unit“
7. Provide Ongoing Training and Support
Finally, effective supervision requires continuous learning and adaptation. Supervisors should regularly invest in their own training, as well as in the development of their teams. By staying updated on the latest forensic techniques and technologies, you can offer better guidance to your units.
Training programs such as Forensic Supervisor Virtual Academy or specialized sessions like the Forensic Supervisor Level II Virtual Academy are excellent opportunities for expanding your leadership capabilities. This ensures that both you and your team are equipped with the tools necessary to succeed.
Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Supervising Multiple Forensic Units
Supervising multiple forensic units can be a complex and demanding role, but with the right strategies, it’s entirely achievable. By prioritizing tasks, establishing clear communication channels, streamlining workflows, and investing in training and technology, forensic supervisors can navigate the challenges of managing several teams effectively.
As a forensic supervisor, your role is to support and guide your teams, ensuring that each unit operates at its best. The more you hone these skills, the more successful you’ll be in your supervisory role. Remember, the goal is to lead with clarity, efficiency, and motivation—ultimately creating an environment where your forensic units can thrive.
Unlimited Access to this Training on Forensic Unit Culture
If you want to dive deeper into Larry Stringham’s insights and learn from other forensic leadership experts, get access to the 2022 Forensic Supervisor Success Summit Replay.
With the All-Access Pass, you’ll gain exclusive resources, tools, and methods you need to start thriving as a forensic supervisor.
👉 Purchase the full replay here
Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your leadership skills and build stronger forensic teams!
Keep Learning: More Insights from Forensic Leadership Experts
If you’re eager to continue exploring the topics covered at the 2022 Forensic Supervisor Success Summit, be sure to check out these podcast episodes featuring more of the summit’s expert speakers:
- Creating an Outstanding Unit Culture with Shawn Henderson
- Having Conversations with Your Chain of Command with Ryan Berry
- Gaining Buy-In from Your Team and Chain of Command with Steven Moser
