Continuity of operations plans: Simple or detailed?

Abstract

A continuity of operations plan (COOP) is designed to ensure the stability and continuation of essential services during a wide range of potential events. A successful COOP will: (1) ensure the continuous performance of essential functions before, during and after an event; (2) ensure employee safety and communication; (3) protect essential equipment, vital records and other assets; (4) reduce disruptions to operations to minimise damage and losses; and (5) achieve an orderly recovery, identifying relocation sites and ensuring operational and managerial requirements are met before, during and after an event occurs. This paper focuses on these specific objectives, and discusses the information required, the methodology to consider and what templates to apply in order to create a successful COOP, regardless of whether it is simple or detailed. This paper is based on a workshop given at DRJ SpringWorld 2018.