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Business Continuity Plan

Updated Jan 30, 2024 ·

Overview​

A Business Continuity Plan (BCP) is a pre-determined set of instructions describing how the mission/business processes of an organization will be sustained during and after a significant disruption.

Key elements involve:

  • Phone trees for multiple contact methods.
  • Systematic use of procedures and checklists for assigning responsibilities.
  • Prompt activation with involvement from management and authorized individuals.
  • Maintenance of critical contact numbers for various entities.
  • Access to designated numbers and military-grade networks during severe cyberattacks or major disruptions.

Risk Assessment​

Risk assessment is the process of identifying and evaluating potential threats and vulnerabilities that could disrupt business operations.

  • Identify potential risks, including external and internal threats.
  • Assess the potential impact of these risks on critical functions.

A combination of approaches is recommended:

  • Quantitative risk assessment: Calculate financial losses, e.g., if a server fails.
  • Qualitative risk assessment: Assess non-financial impacts, like reputation damage.

Business Impact Analysis​

Prioritize mission-critical processes:

  • Determine critical business functions, processes, and their dependencies.
  • Quantify the impact of disruptions on these functions.
  • Helps prioritize recovery efforts and allocate resources effectively.

Key considerations include:

  • Identify sensitive data
  • Identify single points of failure

Potential business impacts

  • Fines
  • Loss of contracts
  • Reputation Loss
  • Data Loss
    • Breach notification
    • Escalation requirements
    • Data exfiltration

For failed components, see Failed Component Impacts.

Emergency Response Plan​

The Emergency Response Plan outlines the immediate actions to take during a crisis to ensure safety and minimize impact.

  • Define procedures for immediate response to crises.
  • Outline roles and responsibilities during emergencies.

Crisis Management Plan​

The Crisis Management Plan focuses on effective decision-making during stressful situations.

  • Streamlines decision-making processes in a crisis.
  • Establishes a command structure and roles during emergencies.
  • Sets communication protocols for internal and external stakeholders.

Backup and Recovery​

Backup and Recovery strategies ensure data and systems can be restored after a disruption.

  • Implement data backup systems and offsite storage.
  • Develop recovery strategies for IT systems and infrastructure.

Alternate Site and Facilities​

Identifying alternate sites is crucial for maintaining business operations during disruptions.

  • Designate alternate locations for business continuity.
  • Ensure necessary facilities are available during emergencies.

Resource Management​

Resource Management involves planning for workforce continuity and securing essential resources.

  • Plan for remote work options and workforce continuity.
  • Ensure access to critical resources for business recovery.

Training/Awareness Programs​

Training and awareness programs help prepare employees for business continuity protocols.

  • Conduct regular drills and training sessions for employees.
  • Raise awareness about BCP protocols and procedures.

Supplier/Vendor Relationships​

Managing supplier and vendor relationships is key for maintaining supply chain continuity.

  • Assess the continuity plans of key suppliers and vendors.
  • Develop contingency plans for supply chain disruptions.

Testing and Exercising​

Regular testing and exercising of the BCP validate the effectiveness of response strategies.

  • Conduct regular tests to evaluate the BCP's effectiveness.
  • Simulate Business Continuity exercises to practice response strategies.

Documentation and Reporting​

Documentation and reporting ensure transparency and accountability in incident management.

  • Maintain up-to-date documentation of the BCP.
  • Establish reporting mechanisms for incidents and recovery progress.

Continuous Improvement​

Continuous improvement involves regularly updating the BCP based on insights gained from incidents and exercises.

  • Review and update the BCP periodically.
  • Incorporate lessons learned from real incidents or exercises.