Practice Makes Perfect in Disaster Recovery Planning
Posted by Matt Spada on Wed, Feb 10, 2010
In my daily experience speaking to businesses of all types, I must commend the organizations I come across that have taken the initiative to put a Disaster Recovery Plan in place. It's a clear indication that they have tried to plan for both the expected and unexpected events that may impact their day-to-day operations.
Unfortunately, the fact remains that the majority of businesses have never tested their recovery plan. How can you be secure in your organization's ability to function as expected during an actual crisis without first putting it to the test?
Perhaps the word ‘test' attaches a ‘pass/fail' criterion and should instead be looked at as more of a practice or drill. Most businesses who have been through a testing of their recovery plan will tell you that there is no such thing as a ‘failed' test. These exercises are designed to bring certain realities to the surface that may not have been thought about without going through a dry-run. I can certainly understand the satisfaction of being able to put a checkmark in the ‘DR Plan' box and moving along with the rest of the day's agenda, but without actually testing the validity of your plan, you can never be certain it will work when needed.
Testing may seem to be a monumental task. At Agility Recovery, we encourage our members to test annually - ensuring their plan stays current, well documented and effective. With staff dedicated solely to assisting members with these needs, we are constantly striving for ways to encourage businesses to test their continuity initiatives. Testing should be a vital component of your continuity plan, not an afterthought.
Where we would be without wedding rehearsals, spring training and fire drills? I think it's difficult to argue the tried and true saying, "practice makes perfect". Just ask Drew Brees...
To learn more about the importance of testing as well as some best practices for getting started, register for our upcoming educational Webinar on February 24th at 2pm EST, "Put your Recovery Plan in Motion – Test it Today!" If you have any questions or would like to speak to an Agility Representative about testing, please contact us at 877.364.9393 or via email.
- Matt Spada
Agility Recovery Solutions
Agility Disaster Recovery & Business Continuity Solutions
Agility Recovery on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter here
