A business continuity plan (BCP) is the safety net that keeps your business running when things go wrong. Emergencies can strike at any time, whether it’s a natural disaster, a cyber attack, or a sudden system failure. Without a solid plan, operations can grind to a halt, leaving staff, customers, and revenue at risk. This article shares seven common pitfalls that you need to watch out for.
1. Not Identifying Critical Functions
If you don’t know which functions are vital, resources can end up being spent in non-critical places. Spend some time identifying the processes that keep the heart of the business beating in a crisis. When you know what is most important, you can effectively concentrate recovery efforts. If you have priorities, you can keep from getting bogged down in things that don’t help build the business during a crisis.
2. Skipping Risk Assessment
Another mistake is believing that all risks are visible and dispensing with a systematic risk assessment. Every business can face unique threats, like floods, but also supply chain breakdowns. Mapping out risks and planning for how to mitigate them by using tooling can help you avoid those nasty surprises. A strong risk assessment allows you to plan for how likely it i, and what the worst consequences could be.
3. Leaving Out Key Stakeholders
Forgetting to include department heads, team leaders, or other key staff can render your plan infeasible. When procedures don’t arise with the input of the people who are running daily operations, they may be unrealistic. Engaging with the right stakeholders ensures that roles and responsibilities are clear. Their practical insights turn the focus onto problems that you might never know were an issue.
4. Making the Plan Too Complicated
Sometimes companies make a mess of their BCP, becoming so bogged down in detail that it is impossible to follow. Make sure that the instructions are short, concise and actionable. Dissect breaks in a logical fashion and use software to organise info for quick reference when you need it. At the same time, a plan that is easy to follow speeds activation and diminishes the likelihood of mistakes during an emergency.
5. Neglecting Regular Testing
Practising regularly with drills, simulations, and tabletop exercises can help uncover vulnerabilities. Testing is also reassuring for staff; knowing what to do with certainty decreases the sense of panic and confusion. With business continuity software, you can monitor outcomes of those tests, highlight which areas are ripe for improvement and streamline the process of updating your plan.
6. Forgetting Communication Plans
During any disruption, staying in touch with staff, clients, and suppliers is key. You would be surprised how many BCPs fail to address messaging, channels or escalation procedures. Templates! For updates on the action, how information will be shared and who communicates with whom. A carefully considered communication strategy prevents confusion, ensures that everyone is on the same page.
7. Not Keeping the Plan Updated
Businesses evolve, but BCPs often are managed and maintained as “set and forget.” Periodically review and update to maintain an accurate account of operations for staff assignments. Software can allow for easier tracking of updates and ensure everyone has the latest version in hand. A current plan gives confidence that your team can respond effectively, no matter what comes up.
Avoiding Common Business Continuity Plan Mistakes
Creating a solid business continuity plan takes thought, effort, and ongoing attention. Applying business continuity planning software helps you manage processes, keep things in perspective, and monitor milestones. A robust emergency plan protects the business, as well as employees and customers, by comforting everyone, and it assures that even following a disaster, they can still operate.
