This chapter examines the broad picture regarding the prospects for integration in response to crises and civil contingencies. It evaluates the complexity of emergency situations, using so-called ‘complex emergencies’ as a yardstick. It considers the various forms of potential to develop interoperability in emergency planning, management and response. Next, it probes the different forms of organisation that have been created in order to tackle disasters and emergencies and weighs up their potential for a more integrated approach. It extends this analysis into the humanitarian response field. Lastly the ways in which organisations learn and adapt are considered in relation to the potential for more integrated responses. It is concluded that integration is a fundamental need in emergency management, but it should be achieved by creating functional links rather than ever larger organisational structures.