Computer systems are the core tool of today’s business and are vital to every business from the smallest to giant organizations. Money transactions, customer service are just simple examples. Despite high hopes, disasters in one form or another eventually strike every organization. Whether it’s natural disaster like a hurricane or earthquake, or man-made disaster like a street riot or explosion – every organization will encounter events that threaten their very existence.

We all work on our computer systems without thinking about “What if” scenarios. However, computers are not like other electronic devices such as TV, DVD and etc. Dependent on a combination of hardware and software, they may suddenly stop working for some reason. Even power failures can cause malfunctioning. To avoid such problems we need to draw up a Plan, or a number of alternate plans for possible scenarios, to help mitigate the effects a disaster has on the company’s continuing operations and to achieve a speedy return to normal operations. Advanced preparation saves time, money, and prevents loss of clients, and business reputation.

Objectives

• Business Continuity Planning (BCP)
• Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP)

Process Flow

• Risk Management
• Business Continuity Planning
• Disaster Recovery Plan

Summary

Business Continuity Planning (BCP) and Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP) are very important plans for business from small to big sizes. Before planning, the business should identify its assets and risks. The process is called Risk Management, and is divided in to 4 sections:

• Risk Analysis
• Asset Valuation
• Calculating Safeguards
• Handling Risk

These elements help to see the full picture before preparing the plans. Business Continuity Planning (BCP) helps a business to recover one of its systems which has ceased to function. It is divided in to 4 sections:

• Project Scope and Planning
• Business Impact Assessment
• Continuity Planning Goals
• Approval and Implementation

Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP) deals with worst case scenarios when ALL systems or one major system have ceased to function. This Plan is executed as in autopilot mode.

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