BUSINESS CONTINUITY STRATEGY

By Tracy Wymer, SPACE Principal

SPACE is a global consulting organization providing strategic planning, design and management of the corporate workplayce. The following represents critical components pertinent to a robust business continuity strategy.

• Integrated Personnel Databases - The following must be accessible through a single point of entry, a portal that integrates databases regardless of their platform.

A CAFM system that indicates location of primary workplace with phone number and pertinent office location data

HR database captures relevant personal information and critical addresses, phone numbers and points of contact.

Database access records to track the locations and points of access especially for the highly mobile personnel.

• WEB Based Technology Access - Off site secure server locations that provide 24/7 access, security and maintenance of equipment and surroundings. This should include automatic periodic back up and expansion as needs progress.
  
• Rapidly Deployed Workplace - Consists of a designed and planned solution that will provide workstations to a site in a minimal amount of time. Predetermined concepts will address configurations of necessary support, necessary components and a spec list of rapidly available parts. Pre-arranged agreements with vendors will indicate minimal requirements of such a solution, leaving only the determined destination as a variable.
  
• High Speed Access for Key Personnel - If not already installed, provide high-speed access at the homes of all key leaders. This would include training for access and the ability to perform from a mobile work site. Options include combination printer / fax machines for the home location.
  
• Connecting Communication Chain - Structure a communication chain that dictates a protocol for assuring everyone's location and safety.
  
• Remote Real Estate Options - Identify oin a regional basis options for off site locations. This may include motels, convention or conference facilities or owned or leased property that has a prearranged expansion capacity. It is critical in all scenarios to know what the occupancy level for each option.