More than just being prepared, your business has to be resilient enough to withstand an unprecedented crisis. Whether it’s tough market conditions, natural disasters or a global pandemic, business owners must look beyond minor complications in operations and assess how to work their way through worst case scenarios.
A business continuity plan (BCP) will serve as your ultimate survival guide during your company’s critical points. But before laying down the specific details, you need a solid foundation for your BCP. Identifying its purpose, scope and leadership will kickstart the process of coming up with a stable and effective course of action. Make sure not only the top management knows about the whole BCP framework but also all your employees.
Purpose
Why is your company introducing a business continuity plan?
Make your purpose clear. This will help determine your priorities to come up with the right strategies. First and foremost, the purpose of your BCP is to protect people, your employees and visitors within your premises. After that, protect your business. This includes maintaining the ability to fulfill contractual obligations to customers and users and meeting social responsibility—therefore, securing employment and livelihood.
Scope
Which parts of your company will produce the plan?
You can apply the BCP to certain areas in your company only. Determine your scope by identifying what departments will most likely play a crucial role in your company’s survival. Is it your branch that has the highest number of sales? Or your factory that produces your top-selling product? Define the limitations of your BCP based on the current needs and circumstances of your company.
Leadership
Who will serve as leader of your activities?
Appoint the person who will spearhead your company-wide activities. Such programs require active participation and cooperation across relevant sections (as determined by your scope). Choose someone whom you and your staff trusts. If your company size demands a BCP team, you can create a group intended for this purpose. Make sure they’re provided with the necessary resources to carry out their responsibilities. There’s more to achieving a successful BCP than just relaying verbal directions—there has to be concrete action.