What is a business continuity plan (BCP)?
A business continuity plan (BCP) outlines how a business will continue operating during an unplanned disruption in service during an adverse situation like a pandemic, major power outage or an earthquake. It is more extensive than a disaster recovery plan and entails options for processes, assets, controls, human resources (HR) and partners – aspects of the business that might be affected and needs contingency.
BSP has become more relevant due to the COVID-19 and in the new normal. Business models are changing and evolving.
BCP typically contain a checklist that includes:
- supplies and equipment
- data backups
- backup site locations
- plan administrators
- contact information for emergency responders
- key personnel
- backup site providers
A business continuity plan (BCP) may also provide detailed strategies on how business operations can be maintained for both short-term and long-term outages.
