In our very first episode of our podcast, The Cyber Cast, hosts Joel Sosebee and Mike Sylvester look into the critical topic of disaster planning and preparedness for businesses. The goal of The Cyber Cast is to simplify technology and cybersecurity for business leaders, providing practical advice that can be easily implemented.
| “Always have a backup or failover. It’s fairly inexpensive.” – Mike Sylvester, vCIO, AT-NET |
The Importance of a Documented Plan
The main takeaway from this episode is the necessity of having a documented disaster plan. If your organization doesn’t have a plan that is written down and known by more than one person, it’s time to create one.
This plan should be tested annually to ensure its effectiveness. Remember, that if you haven’t tested your plan, you don’t have a plan. Talking to an expert for an outside perspective can also be invaluable.
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Types of Disasters
While natural disasters like hurricanes are often what you think of first, there are other types of disasters that businesses need to prepare for as well.
Potential Impacts
Here are some effects that disasters can lead to, including:
- Business Interruption: Operations can come to a halt, affecting productivity and revenue.
- Financial Loss: Depending on the systems affected, financial losses can be substantial.
- Data Breaches: Sensitive client data being released can damage a business’s reputation and lead to legal and financial repercussions.
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Benefits of a Documented Plan
Having a documented and tested disaster plan offers several benefits.
| Ensures Business Continuity | A well-prepared plan helps maintain operations during a disaster. |
| Reduces Stress | Following a checklist or procedure can lower stress levels during a crisis. |
| Minimizes Business Loss | A plan can help limit or eliminate unexpected expenses and reduce recovery time. |
| Regulatory Compliance | For industries with regulatory requirements, having a documented plan is often mandatory. |
Getting Started
For business owners who don’t have a documented plan, the best place to start is by looking at the specific needs and risks of their organization. Here are some steps to consider:
- Assess Risks: Identify potential disasters that could impact your business.
- Document Procedures: Write down the steps to take in the event of each type of disaster.
- Test the Plan: Regularly test the plan to ensure it works and make necessary adjustments.
- Engage Experts: Consider bringing in experts to review and improve your plan.
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Conclusion
Disaster planning and preparedness are essential for any business. By having a documented plan, regularly testing it, and engaging experts, businesses can ensure they are ready to handle any crisis that comes their way. Stay tuned for more practical advice on The Cyber Cast, where Joel and Mike continue to simplify technology and cybersecurity for business leaders.
