Once you’re done creating a Business Continuity Plan, by no means is the preparation complete. There are still follow-up procedures to maintain the efficacy of the plan, especially in the long run. This is crucial as variables are constantly changing, and you will need to make sure your business is evolving in tandem.
Create a checklist that includes the supplies and equipment needed, location of data backups and backup sites, contact information for key personnel, emergency responders and backup site providers. Be sure to include regular table-top exercises, structured walk-throughs, and disaster simulation testings to ensure that your Business Continuity Plan remains effective.
Procedures should be developed to review the impact of new processes, systems and technology on a regular basis. Be sure to also document any changes made to existing plans, so that the rest of the team can be up to speed with the recent updates.