Any unexpected
blow in a business can completely catch you off guard, and you will have a hard
time trying to get things back in order. Most entrepreneurs are aware of possible
problems, so they have a business continuity plan already in place. Not just
identifying but also testing these plans to find loopholes and room for improvements
is equally as important. Here are some tried-and-true procedures.
Set Objectives
It is necessary
to have clear objectives. Outcomes are not limited but may include evacuation
routines, IT disaster recovery, supplier management and off-site recovery
plans.
Select the Right Task
There are four
tasks which increasing in complexity.
- A walkthrough – this includes all team members to discuss whether the current plan has covered everything and up to date.
- Desktop task – this will be a discussion of a fictional scenario delivered through a series of PowerPoint presentations. This task is best for new or intermediate teams.
- Functional task – this task is designed to use specific team members, procedures, and resources in the event of a disaster. It helps in performing in a virtual environment.
- Real time task – it is performed in real time with normal business on hold. A live exercise is more difficult and costly to put in order, but will ensure a much smoother process if the worst does happen.
Develop a scenario that will suit your objectives. Be creative when suggesting
incidents. You require only two or three of your employees engaged for a couple
of hours, during which their performance is monitored.
Prepare employees
Be clear about who are participants, observers, and facilitators for
the purposes of the task in the company. Explain all courses of actions to everyone involved in the plan.
Run the task
After careful planning and scheduling, it’s time for action. Make
sure you observe closely and ask yourself the following questions: What more is
to be done, or differently? Are there
any potential areas that can be improved? What went well, and what didn’t?
End this task with a feedback and also a brainstorming session where
employees can express their opinions and contribute their ideas.
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