An alternative methodology for business impact analysis in a service-oriented industry

Abstract

Traditional business impact analysis outlines a methodology where analysts work from the top down (from business to IT), documenting the impact to the business when critical processes fail during an unplanned disruption. Information technology is increasingly becoming an enabler of business rather than a support function and this is most apparent in serviceoriented industries. This paper outlines a new bottom-up approach to business impact analysis (from IT to business) in a service-oriented industry, by identifying the business processes that are enabled by IT — the common thread between IT and business. The paper also explains in detail how the processes outlined in this paper can help the enterprise to meet the service continuity requirements suggested by ITIL and other IT service continuity standards. The author would welcome feedback from fellow business continuity management professionals regarding this new approach to business impact analysis.