The critical importance and complexity of hazard prevention and crisis management operations mean that the managers responsible have to meet the highest standards. This book presents a universal management theory for the police, fire brigade, and emergency services as well as for administrative bodies and business enterprises. Operational management is understood theoretically as involving the cybernetic regulation of complex adaptive systems, and this is illustrated using many operational examples. Encouraging behaviour, skilful tools and a comprehensible decision-making model are explained that allow management steps to be effective. A practical algorithm sums up the education, training and implementation required. Possible courses of action are outlined that can ensure higher-level management capability and the maintenance of effective management systems. The book is intended not only for practitioners but also for training institutes and researchers.