Business Pages - Business Continuity

If the worst happened, could your business continue operating?

You could be up and running again sooner than you think – with a business continuity plan

What is business continuity?
Business continuity is the process of planning so that your business or organisation can cope with the unexpected, so when faced with disruption or disaster you can carry on or resume operations with minimum delay.

Why have a business continuity plan?
Most of us have insurance against various risks to our businesses but it is unlikely that insurance will cover all of the costs or problems from a significant incident:

• One in five businesses suffers a major disruption every year
• More than 50 per cent of companies who do not have a business continuity plan are hit by a disaster and go out of business within 12 months

How much will it cost?
A simple plan for an average business should not cost very much. Although, if your business is heavily dependent upon technology or in a location vulnerable to flooding, the expense is likely to be greater.

How do I ensure that my business is prepared?
The plan need not be complex and many of the actions are simple and effective. Measures could include:

• Make a full list of all organisations and individuals you deal with including staff, suppliers, utilities, customers, professional associations, insurers. The list should include all details and contact information and be kept up to date with copies held at work and at least one other safe location.
• If you use databases and other computer-based applications back them up regularly and keep the back up copies in at least one other safe location.
• Make sure your computer systems are password protected, and regularly changed.
• Make sure your premises are properly secured to cut the risk of theft and damage.
• Make a fire evacuation plan, and ensure good fire protection measures are in place to minimise the impact of a fire.
• If at risk of flooding make a flood protection plan, putting suitable precautions in place.
• If reliant upon suppliers, identify alternatives, and preferably buy from more than one where possible.

This list is not exhaustive but should help your initial considerations

For more information on Business Continuity and preparing a Business Continuity Plan, check out our website, take a look at a pdf of our 'Business Continuity in Emergencies' leaflet or contact Ellie Apperly at East Hampshire District Council on telephone 01730 234284 or e-mail ellie.apperly@easthants.gov.uk.