Business Continuity – Calling in the Experts (Part 2)
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Anyway, moving on swiftly, In my previous business continuity blog, I discussed the importance of being prepared for all eventualities and the fact that sometimes expert help is needed for something that is beyond our control or understanding. We can’t be a ‘jack of all trades’ and knowing where to look for expert help can be the difference between a crisis with minimal disruption and a crisis with maximum disruption!
Below are a few more ways we can get expert help to protect our businesses, our staff and our data…
1. Maintaining Premises Security
A burglary can be devastating and depending on what has been stolen, business may not be able to operate as usual. This is literally an overnight change that all businesses of all sizes must be prepared for. No-one should allow themselves to fall into the trap of ‘it will never happen to me’. Yes, it is easier for criminals to exploit networks and cripple an organisation online, but an open window or an unlocked gate/warehouse can prove to be all too appealing for some.
- CCTV doesn’t necessarily stop intruders but it can certainly discourage them if they are placed in obvious zones.
- Update your warehouse or door locks
- If PIN codes are used for access, change these often
- Invest in identity passes for your employees
2. Learn about staying safe online, online!
www.getsafeonline.org is an organisation that works with the government, businesses and law enforcement to provide free and independent advice for staying safe online. Sometimes it’s the simple how to’s that count…
3. Involve Local Authorities
Local authorities recognise that smaller organisations may be new to BC and the fact that they may not have the expertise, experience or even the time to think about BC. Under the Civil Contingencies Act they are obliged to provide advice within their authority area on business continuity.
4. Finding and Contacting Local Talent
The key here is to seek out local trades people who you trust to do a good job. Seek them out BEFORE a crisis happens and have their contact details close to hand. It is a good idea to make a list of these people with their contact details so you can refer to it easily when needed.
5. Hire a Business Continuity Consultant
Getting an expert in will take the pressure off and smooth out the process, getting it up and running more quickly, and letting you get on with business as usual. Hire a consultant with extensive experience and qualifications to match… BC consultants can be particularly helpful in....
- Carrying out the initial business impact analysis (BIA)
- Suggesting strategies that best fit the needs of the business
- Training employees
- Testing and exercising
If you require any help or advice don’t hesitate to get in contact - MConway@localhost