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Been Through the Storm
Title: Been Through the Storm
Date: December 2006
Author: Alfredo Guerra and Kathie Kearney
Bibliographic Entry: Guerra, Alfredo and Kathie Kearney. “Been Through the Storm.” Risk Management Magazine. V. 53, no. 12 December 2006. pp 46 – 8, 50.
Key Words: business continuity, disaster response, private sector, business resumption, human element, disaster
Summary of Key Points, Issues, Conclusions:
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This article looks at NCCI’s experiences developing and testing their business continuity plan, using Tropical Storm Ernesto as a “test run.” NCCI credits its ability to weather seven hurricanes to its business continuity plan, which is described as a “living document.” The greatest lesson learned to date is that no two storms are the same and each presents a unique set of circumstances and challenges.
The plan element most used during a hurricane is the business resumption plans. But the most overlooked critical component is the human element – people must actually carry out the plan. It is important to identify people with critical skills and consider all the operating options should those people not be immediately available or accessible following a disaster. It is equally important to attempt to create a normalized environment as well.
NCCI also had three useful strategies for overcoming unforeseen challenges: encouraging employee carpooling, educating employees on personal disaster preparedness, and scheduling soft openings for those who can return to work and allow flexible schedules for those who cannot return fully.
Name of Researcher: Katie Stout
Institution: Integrative Center for Homeland Security, Texas A&M University
Date Posted: April 3, 2008