This article could easily be titled, “The Things People Do”. When it comes to assessing business continuity and resumption (BCR), I think I have seen it all until the next assignment. Here are some gems to get you thinking about your environment and things to keep your eyes on.
The Obvious Not Being Obvious
I once worked in a very secure environment that required security clearances for everyone, including the custodians. It was a critical operation that had to function with 99.999 reliability. On my first day I inspected the building and grounds from top to bottom with the Facility Manager. My role was Security and Business Continuity Manager. I had us commence the tour in the subbasement “bunker” of the building. We entered an electrical vault and I could not believe my eyes. Despite massive amounts of money spent on a post-disaster structure, the architect created a nightmare from a business continuity perspective. In this same room that was only about 8′ x 12′, he designed it to house the main electrical panel for the entire building. What’s wrong with that you ask? Well, also inside the room with this panel was the primary electrical transformer. Does it get worse? YES. Also housed in this room was the backup transformer hanging disconnected on a pipe and suspended off the ground, ready to be placed into action, if needed. Well conceivably if the primary transformer blew up, wouldn’t it damage the backup sitting across from it and possibly the main electrical panel sitting next to it? The estimate to correct this was over $400,000. The Things People Do.
The VPN Is Too Private
Today’s tech companies rely heavily on Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) as a critical component of business continuity, enabling secure work-from-home access and reliable connectivity for employees. One client had a site with a headcount of 140 FTEs, but that number was projected to rise dramatically within months. While every employee was equipped with laptops and cell phones—the essential tools for remote productivity—the business continuity challenge quickly became apparent: VPN licenses. Without adequate VPN licenses, their ability to maintain seamless operations during growth or disruptions would be compromised, creating a significant business continuity risk.
In this case, even with strong infrastructure and proven internet reliability during previous natural disasters, the lack of foresight in scaling VPN access created a vulnerability in the organization’s business continuity planning. We’ve encountered this issue repeatedly in our consulting practice, illustrating that business continuity is not just about tools but also about anticipating growth, budgeting for scalability, and ensuring every operational component is ready to withstand disruptions.
What about your organization—are you confident in your business continuity strategy?
These are just a couple of examples of the many things you may encounter as you chip away at your Business Continuity and Resumption Planning. The Business Continuity Institute (BCI) has courses and guides that may also assist you. Thanks to my good friend, Clive Lunn for reminding me after my last post!
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At Premier Risk Solutions (PRS), we specialize in helping organizations of all sizes strengthen their business continuity strategies and proactively mitigate operational risks. From scaling technology infrastructure to designing comprehensive contingency plans, PRS provides the expertise and actionable solutions your business needs to stay resilient in the face of growth, crises, and unexpected disruptions.
Partner with PRS today to ensure your business continuity plan isn’t just a document, but a competitive advantage. Contact us to schedule a consultation and safeguard your organization’s future.
