To think that your organization won’t have to face an IT disaster or problem at some point is incredibly optimistic but also very dangerous. It is more important than ever to have a strong, current IT recovery plan in place. Toward this end, take a few steps:
- Frame your recovery plan in the context of risks. Identify the risks your company faces and how you can minimize each one. This will help ensure a practical plan that everyone can understand and embrace.
- Prioritize communication. You can’t afford a communications breakdown in the event of an IT disaster. Plan alternative ways of communicating with team members and other stakeholders in the event of an emergency. Make sure everyone knows about this plan and how it impacts them.
- Protect data continuity and backups. Data continuity means having alternative processes and infrastructures in place to enable IT operations to continue, even during a crisis. The first step toward this end is an investment in failover systems, as well as a backup generator and power supplies.
- Define what downtime is acceptable. Determine how much downtime a company can feasibly withstand. Focus on a recovery plan that can get your systems back up and functioning as quickly as possible and minimize losses.
