Continuity Planning and Disaster Recovery
Expert-defined terms from the Global Certificate Course in Crisis Management Evaluation for School Nurses course at London School of Planning and Management. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Continuity Planning and Disaster Recovery #
Continuity Planning and Disaster Recovery
Continuity Planning and Disaster Recovery (CPDR) are vital components of crisis… #
CPDR involves developing strategies, processes, and procedures to minimize the impact of disruptions and enable the school to continue essential functions and services.
Continuity Planning #
Continuity Planning
Continuity Planning is the process of identifying potential risks and developing… #
This includes creating emergency response plans, establishing communication protocols, and conducting regular drills and exercises to test the effectiveness of the plans.
Disaster Recovery #
Disaster Recovery
Disaster Recovery is the process of restoring and recovering critical systems an… #
This involves recovering data, restoring infrastructure, and resuming normal operations as quickly as possible to minimize downtime and ensure continuity of services.
Business Impact Analysis (BIA) #
Business Impact Analysis (BIA)
Business Impact Analysis (BIA) is a systematic process of evaluating the potenti… #
BIA helps identify critical functions, dependencies, and vulnerabilities, allowing schools to prioritize resources and develop effective continuity plans.
Risk Assessment #
Risk Assessment
Risk Assessment is the process of identifying, analyzing, and evaluating potenti… #
This includes natural disasters, such as earthquakes and hurricanes, as well as human-made threats, such as cyber-attacks and violence. Risk assessment helps schools understand their vulnerabilities and develop strategies to mitigate risks.
Emergency Response Plan #
Emergency Response Plan
An Emergency Response Plan is a comprehensive document that outlines the steps t… #
This includes procedures for evacuation, sheltering, communication, and coordination with emergency services. Emergency response plans should be regularly updated and communicated to all stakeholders.
Incident Command System (ICS) #
Incident Command System (ICS)
The Incident Command System (ICS) is a standardized management system used to co… #
ICS establishes a clear chain of command, roles, and responsibilities to ensure effective communication and coordination among response teams. Schools should train staff on ICS principles to enable a coordinated response to emergencies.
Crisis Communication Plan #
Crisis Communication Plan
A Crisis Communication Plan outlines the strategies and protocols for communicat… #
This includes establishing communication channels, message templates, and procedures for disseminating information to students, parents, staff, and the media. A well-developed crisis communication plan helps schools maintain transparency and manage public perception during a crisis.
Business Continuity Plan (BCP) #
Business Continuity Plan (BCP)
A Business Continuity Plan (BCP) is a comprehensive document that outlines the s… #
BCP includes risk assessments, continuity strategies, communication protocols, and recovery plans to ensure the school can continue operations in the face of disruptions.
Emergency Operations Center (EOC) #
Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
An Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is a centralized facility where key personn… #
The EOC serves as a command center for managing resources, communicating with stakeholders, and making critical decisions during a crisis. Schools should establish EOCs and train staff on their roles and responsibilities.
Tabletop Exercise #
Tabletop Exercise
A Tabletop Exercise is a simulation #
based training activity where key personnel gather to discuss and walk through various crisis scenarios. Tabletop exercises help identify gaps in emergency plans, test communication protocols, and improve coordination among response teams. Schools should conduct regular tabletop exercises to ensure readiness for emergencies.
Critical Infrastructure #
Critical Infrastructure
Critical Infrastructure refers to the systems, facilities, and assets that are e… #
This includes buildings, utilities, IT systems, and communication networks. Schools should identify and prioritize critical infrastructure to ensure continuity of operations during a crisis and develop strategies to protect and maintain these assets.
Supply Chain Resilience #
Supply Chain Resilience
Supply Chain Resilience is the ability of a school to adapt and recover quickly… #
This includes disruptions in the delivery of goods, services, and resources needed for operations. Schools should assess the vulnerabilities in their supply chain, establish alternative suppliers, and develop contingency plans to ensure continuity in the face of disruptions.
Recovery Point Objective (RPO) #
Recovery Point Objective (RPO)
Recovery Point Objective (RPO) is the maximum amount of data that a school can a… #
RPO helps determine the frequency of data backups and recovery strategies to ensure that critical data can be restored to a point in time before the disruption occurred. Schools should establish RPOs based on the criticality of data and the impact of data loss on operations.
Recovery Time Objective (RTO) #
Recovery Time Objective (RTO)
Recovery Time Objective (RTO) is the maximum amount of time that a school can af… #
RTO helps determine the speed and priority of recovery efforts to minimize downtime and resume normal operations. Schools should establish RTOs for critical functions and systems to guide recovery efforts.
Human Resources Continuity #
Human Resources Continuity
Human Resources Continuity involves ensuring that the school has the necessary s… #
This includes cross-training staff, establishing succession plans, and developing strategies to maintain staffing levels in the face of disruptions. Human resources continuity is essential for ensuring the school can continue to provide essential services to students and the community.
Virtual Learning Environment #
Virtual Learning Environment
A Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is an online platform that facilitates the… #
VLEs allow for remote learning, collaboration, and engagement, making them a valuable tool for maintaining continuity during school closures or emergencies. Schools should have robust VLEs in place to support remote learning and communication during crises.
Business Impact Assessment (BIA) #
Business Impact Assessment (BIA)
Business Impact Assessment (BIA) is a process of evaluating the potential impact… #
BIA helps identify critical functions, dependencies, and vulnerabilities, allowing schools to prioritize resources and develop effective continuity plans. BIA is a critical step in the continuity planning process to ensure that schools are prepared for disruptions.
Public #
Private Partnerships
Public #
Private Partnerships are collaborations between government agencies, private organizations, and non-profit entities to address shared goals and challenges. Public-private partnerships can enhance the resilience of schools by leveraging resources, expertise, and networks to support continuity planning and disaster recovery efforts. Schools should explore partnerships with businesses, community organizations, and government agencies to enhance their crisis management capabilities.
Community Resilience #
Community Resilience
Community Resilience refers to the ability of a community to adapt, recover, and… #
Schools play a vital role in building community resilience by engaging with stakeholders, providing resources and support, and promoting preparedness and collaboration. Community resilience is essential for ensuring that schools can effectively respond to and recover from emergencies.
Interoperable Communications #
Interoperable Communications
Interoperable Communications refer to the ability of different communication sys… #
Interoperable communications enable schools to communicate effectively with emergency services, neighboring schools, and other stakeholders during a crisis. Schools should invest in interoperable communication systems and protocols to ensure timely and coordinated response efforts.
Resilience Training #
Resilience Training
Resilience Training involves educating staff, students, and stakeholders on how… #
Resilience training can include first aid, emergency response, crisis communication, and stress management. By providing resilience training, schools can enhance the readiness and effectiveness of their crisis management efforts.
Psychological First Aid #
Psychological First Aid
Psychological First Aid is a supportive intervention to help individuals cope wi… #
Psychological First Aid involves providing emotional support, listening, and connecting individuals with resources to promote resilience and recovery. Schools should train staff in Psychological First Aid to support students, staff, and the school community during and after emergencies.
Continuity of Learning #
Continuity of Learning
Continuity of Learning refers to the ability of schools to maintain educational… #
This includes providing remote learning opportunities, engaging students in meaningful activities, and ensuring access to educational resources. Continuity of learning is essential for minimizing the disruption to students' education during emergencies.
Scenario Planning #
Scenario Planning
Scenario Planning involves developing and analyzing hypothetical scenarios to an… #
Scenario planning helps schools identify potential risks, test response strategies, and improve preparedness. Schools should conduct scenario planning exercises to explore different crisis scenarios and enhance their ability to respond effectively to emergencies.
Emergency Supplies and Equipment #
Emergency Supplies and Equipment
Emergency Supplies and Equipment are essential resources that schools need to ha… #
This includes first aid kits, emergency food and water, communication devices, and safety equipment. Schools should maintain emergency supplies and equipment, conduct regular inventory checks, and ensure they are easily accessible in case of an emergency.
Continuity Planning Committee #
Continuity Planning Committee
A Continuity Planning Committee is a multidisciplinary team responsible for deve… #
The committee typically includes representatives from various departments, such as administration, facilities, IT, security, and communications. The Continuity Planning Committee plays a key role in coordinating continuity planning efforts and ensuring that the school is prepared for emergencies.
Drill and Exercise Program #
Drill and Exercise Program
A Drill and Exercise Program involves conducting regular drills, tabletop exerci… #
Drills and exercises help identify gaps in preparedness, improve coordination among response teams, and enhance the effectiveness of emergency response efforts. Schools should establish a comprehensive drill and exercise program to ensure readiness for emergencies.
Remote Work and Telework #
Remote Work and Telework
Remote Work and Telework refer to the ability of staff to work from home or othe… #
Remote work and telework enable schools to maintain operations, support continuity of services, and ensure the safety of staff during crises. Schools should develop policies, procedures, and technical capabilities to support remote work and telework arrangements.
Cybersecurity Resilience #
Cybersecurity Resilience
Cybersecurity Resilience is the ability of a school to prevent, detect, and resp… #
Cybersecurity resilience involves implementing security measures, monitoring systems for anomalies, and developing incident response plans to mitigate the impact of cyber incidents. Schools should invest in cybersecurity resilience to protect sensitive data, systems, and operations from cyber threats.
Business Continuity Management System (BCMS) #
Business Continuity Management System (BCMS)
A Business Continuity Management System (BCMS) is a framework and set of process… #
BCMS helps schools establish policies, procedures, and controls to ensure the effectiveness of continuity plans. Schools can implement BCMS standards, such as ISO 22301, to enhance their continuity planning capabilities.
Emergency Notifications and Alerts #
Emergency Notifications and Alerts
Emergency Notifications and Alerts are communication tools used to inform studen… #
This includes text messages, emails, phone calls, sirens, and social media alerts. Schools should have multiple channels for sending emergency notifications and alerts to ensure timely and effective communication during crises.
Public Health Emergency Preparedness #
Public Health Emergency Preparedness
Public Health Emergency Preparedness involves planning, training, and resources… #
Public health emergency preparedness includes developing vaccination programs, quarantine protocols, and medical surge capacity to protect the health and safety of students, staff, and the community. Schools should collaborate with public health agencies to enhance their preparedness for public health emergencies.
Resilient Infrastructure #
Resilient Infrastructure
Resilient Infrastructure refers to the design, construction, and maintenance of… #
Resilient infrastructure includes earthquake-resistant buildings, backup power systems, and redundant communication networks. Schools should invest in resilient infrastructure to reduce vulnerabilities and ensure continuity of operations during crises.
Continuity of Operations (COOP) #
Continuity of Operations (COOP)
Continuity of Operations (COOP) is a process of ensuring that essential function… #
COOP involves identifying critical functions, establishing alternate facilities, and developing procedures to maintain operations in the face of disruptions. COOP plans are essential for ensuring that schools can continue to provide essential services to students and the community.
Emergency Evacuation Plan #
Emergency Evacuation Plan
An Emergency Evacuation Plan outlines the procedures for safely evacuating stude… #
The plan includes evacuation routes, assembly points, and procedures for accounting for all individuals. Schools should regularly practice and update their emergency evacuation plans to ensure a swift and organized response during evacuations.
Preparedness Culture #
Preparedness Culture
A Preparedness Culture is a mindset and set of behaviors that prioritize readine… #
A preparedness culture fosters a sense of responsibility, collaboration, and resilience among staff, students, and stakeholders. Schools should promote a preparedness culture by providing training, resources, and support for emergency preparedness efforts.
Multi #
Hazard Planning
Multi #
Hazard Planning involves preparing for and responding to a wide range of emergencies and disasters, including natural hazards, technological accidents, and human-made threats. Multi-hazard planning helps schools develop comprehensive and adaptable emergency plans that can address various types of crises. Schools should consider the unique risks and vulnerabilities in their community when developing multi-hazard plans.
Continuity Planning Software #
Continuity Planning Software
Continuity Planning Software is a tool that helps schools develop, manage, and i… #
Continuity planning software typically includes features for risk assessment, plan development, document storage, and plan testing. Schools can use continuity planning software to streamline their planning processes and improve the effectiveness of their continuity plans.
Response and Recovery Phases #
Response and Recovery Phases
Response and Recovery Phases are stages of the crisis management process that in… #
Response phases focus on saving lives, protecting property, and stabilizing the situation, while recovery phases focus on rebuilding, restoring services, and returning to normal operations. Schools should have plans in place for both response and recovery phases to effectively manage crises.
Business Continuity Planning Coordinator #
Business Continuity Planning Coordinator
A Business Continuity Planning Coordinator is a designated individual responsibl… #
The Coordinator typically leads the Continuity Planning Committee, coordinates with key stakeholders, and ensures that continuity plans are up to date and effective. The Coordinator plays a crucial role in ensuring that the school is prepared for emergencies.
Resource Allocation and Management #
Resource Allocation and Management
Resource Allocation and Management involves identifying, acquiring, and distribu… #
This includes financial resources, equipment, supplies, and personnel. Schools should allocate resources strategically, prioritize critical needs, and maintain a system for managing and tracking resources to ensure readiness for emergencies.
Emergency Response Team #
Emergency Response Team
An Emergency Response Team is a group of trained individuals responsible for imp… #
The team typically includes first responders, administrators, security personnel, and other key staff members. Emergency Response Teams are essential for coordinating response efforts, managing resources, and ensuring a swift and effective response to emergencies.
Continuity Planning Policy #
Continuity Planning Policy
A Continuity Planning Policy is a formal document that outlines the school's com… #
The policy typically includes objectives, responsibilities, and guidelines for developing and implementing continuity plans. Continuity planning policies demonstrate leadership support for preparedness efforts and help establish a culture of readiness within the school.
Supply Chain Disruption #
Supply Chain Disruption
A Supply Chain Disruption occurs when there is a breakdown in the delivery of go… #
Supply chain disruptions can result from natural disasters, transportation issues, or supplier failures. Schools should assess the vulnerabilities in their supply chain, develop contingency plans, and establish relationships with alternative suppliers to mitigate the impact of disruptions.
Risk Mitigation Strategies #
Risk Mitigation Strategies
Risk Mitigation Strategies are actions taken to reduce the likelihood or impact… #
Risk mitigation strategies may include implementing security measures, conducting training and drills, diversifying suppliers, and investing in resilience measures. Schools should develop and implement risk mitigation strategies to enhance their preparedness and resilience to emergencies.
Continuity Planning Documentation #
Continuity Planning Documentation
Continuity Planning Documentation includes all the documents, plans, and records… #
This may include risk assessments, business impact analyses, continuity plans, training materials, and test results. Schools should maintain up-to-date and easily accessible documentation to support continuity planning and disaster recovery efforts.
Business Continuity Planning Process #
Business Continuity Planning Process
The Business Continuity Planning Process is a systematic approach to developing,… #
The process typically involves conducting risk assessments, business impact analyses, plan development, training, testing, and continuous improvement. The Business Continuity Planning Process is essential for ensuring that the school is prepared to respond to and recover from emergencies.
Emergency Sheltering Plan #
Emergency Sheltering Plan
An Emergency Sheltering Plan outlines the procedures for providing shelter and s… #
The plan includes identifying shelter locations, establishing protocols for registration and care, and coordinating with emergency services. Schools should have emergency sheltering plans in place to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals during emergencies.
Communication Resilience #
Communication Resilience
Communication Resilience refers to the ability of the school to maintain effecti… #
Communication resilience involves establishing redundant communication channels, maintaining updated contact information, and providing training on communication protocols. Schools should prioritize communication resilience to ensure that accurate information is disseminated quickly during emergencies.
Emergency Response Training #
Emergency Response Training
Emergency Response Training involves educating staff, students, and stakeholders… #
Training may include first aid, evacuation procedures, crisis communication, and incident management. Schools should provide regular and hands-on training to ensure that individuals are prepared to respond to emergencies and contribute to a coordinated response effort.
Continuity Planning Standards #
Continuity Planning Standards
Continuity Planning Standards are guidelines, frameworks, and best practices tha… #
Standards, such as ISO 22301, provide a structured approach to continuity planning, including risk assessment, plan development, testing, and maintenance. Schools can use continuity planning standards to enhance the quality and effectiveness of their continuity plans.
Exercising and Testing #
Exercising and Testing
Exercising and Testing involves conducting drills, tabletop exercises, and simul… #
Exercising and testing help identify weaknesses, improve coordination, and enhance the effectiveness of response efforts. Schools should conduct regular exercises and tests to ensure that staff are prepared to respond to emergencies.
Continuity Planning Lifecycle #
Continuity Planning Lifecycle
The Continuity Planning Lifecycle is a continuous and iterative process of devel… #
The Continuity Planning Lifecycle is a continuous and iterative process of developing, implementing, evaluating, and improving continuity