Terrorism not widely addressed in European business continuity plans

A survey by Synstar has found that terrorism features in just 20 percent of European business continuity plans. The survey of 700 European IT directors also revealed that changes to business continuity plans are more likely to be driven by issues that feel closer to home, such as corporate governance and audits (35 percent), and existing and potential customers (30 percent). 29 percent say that business continuity plans cover disruptions caused by severe weather conditions. 14 percent said they have plans in place in case of changes in the economic climate with a further 14 percent stating they have plans to cope with possible strike action.

The survey found that 50 percent of companies have reviewed their business continuity plans in the last 12 months. However, some 20 percent were not aware if any changes to the plan had actually been made as a result. 10 percent admitted their BC plans were last reviewed more than two years ago. Even more surprising is the finding that 16 percent of IT directors don’t know what risks their BC plans cover.

Dennis Thomas, director of business continuity for Synstar, commented on the findings: “The research suggests some worrying trends in business continuity management. There seem to be still too few companies continuously reviewing BC plans and failing to prioritise current risks within and outside the organisation. Of the risks that exist, businesses need to evaluate how susceptible their business is to a risk and the damage it would have on operations. Both day-to-day and extreme scenarios need to be considered when developing a risk strategy.

“Recent incidents, from fraud to terrorist attacks, have highlighted that the ‘it won’t happen to us’ attitude is dangerous. It is crucial to develop a cultural awareness and responsible attitude towards risk management within an organisation. Unless there is a coherent understanding of risk and the way it must be managed, contained and averted through continuous review and rehearsal, no amount of business continuity planning will safeguard a company’s interests and assets.”

•Date: 27th January 2004 •Region: UK / W.Europe •Type: Article •Topic: BC stats
Rate this article or make a comment - click here