Ad Hoc§
Definition§
The term “ad hoc” is derived from Latin, meaning ‘for this’ or ‘for this specific purpose’. It generally refers to tasks or procedures that are created as necessary to deal with specific problems or issues, rather than following a predetermined plan. In various fields, ad hoc can describe everything from temporary committees and task forces to makeshift solutions and spontaneous decisions.
Examples§
- Ad Hoc Committee: A group formed to address a particular issue, such as a school board creating an ad hoc committee to address bullying.
- Ad Hoc Attorney: An attorney appointed specifically for a particular case or client due to special circumstances, such as needing expertise in a niche legal matter.
- Ad Hoc Network: In computer science, a network formed on the fly rather than being pre-planned, often used in emergency response situations.
Frequently Asked Questions§
Q1: What is an ad hoc committee?
A1: An ad hoc committee is a temporary group formed to address a specific issue or task. Once the issue is resolved or the task is completed, the committee is usually disbanded.
Q2: Can ad hoc decisions be permanent?
A2: While ad hoc decisions or solutions are typically temporary, they can sometimes lead to permanent solutions if they prove successful or necessary over time.
Q3: How is an ad hoc network different from a regular network?
A3: An ad hoc network is created spontaneously, often with the need for improvisation and quick setup, unlike pre-planned traditional networks that follow a structured design.
Related Terms§
- Temporary: Meant to last a limited amount of time.
- Provisional: Made or serving in terms of immediate needs or requirements.
- Interim: Temporary or for the intervening period.
Online References§
Suggested Books for Further Studies§
- “Ad Hoc Networks: Technologies and Protocols” by Prasant Mohapatra (2009) - Investigates the technology behind impromptu networks.
- “A Practical Guide to Data Structures and Algorithms using Java” by Sally Goldman and Kenneth Goldman - Includes a discussion of ad hoc approaches within computer science.
- “Organizing for Social Change: An Approach for Community Organizing” by Kimberley A. Bobo, Jackie Kendall, and Steve Max (2010) - Discusses organizing community groups, including ad hoc committees.
Fundamentals of Ad Hoc: Management Basics Quiz§
Thank you for exploring the concept of ad hoc with us and tackling our quiz. Keep enhancing your understanding of such versatile terms!