Planning for the unexpected
A pandemic. Severe weather and natural disasters. Political unrest and strikes. Power outages and cybersecurity incidents. Over the last few years, we have experienced all of these catastrophic events—many of which took place simultaneously, magnifying their impact. Now, more than ever, it is imperative to have a solid business continuity plan in place in order to keep your company running and your employees safe. Sterling’s business continuity experts have contributed to this list of eight tips to help you be prepared when the unexpected strikes.
1. Risk assessment
Test equipment and generators in offices and data centers periodically to ensure everything is powered and working as it should. Perform scheduled maintenance to all equipment. Replace batteries in back-up power systems per manufacturers’ guidelines.
2. Disaster recovery drills
Regular disaster recovery drills for different types of systems-related issues can help prepare employees to react quickly in an emergency.
3. Monitor the weather
Observing expected weather patterns could help you be proactive and plan ways to avoid any types of shipment delays or business interruption. Be particularly wary of inland flooding. Never drive through standing water.
4. Ongoing system upgrades
Make improvements to equipment and systems where assessments and drills uncover vulnerabilities.
5. Back-up and replicate data
Real-time replication between data centers and full daily or twice daily back-ups can help minimize the risk of data loss—whether that’s email or urgent customer requests.
6. Communication protocols
Have a well-thought-out communication plan in place—one for employees and another for customers—to keep everyone informed when the unexpected happens.
7. Plan A, B and C
Define the ideal scenario—whether for staffing or logistics—as well as a secondary and tertiary contingency plans to ensure your supply chain keeps moving.
8. Maintain your safety plan
Be sure to document all processes and make them known and easy to find so employees and customers can protect themselves and their families as well.
We hope you find these tips helpful in the development or update of your business continuity plans. If you need any assistance, please reach out to one of our global logistics experts. They are available 24/7/365 to support your urgent aviation logistics needs. Even during the worst of circumstances and unforeseen events, the Sterling team is here for you to keep your supply chain moving.
[Video] Expect the unexpected
Sterling has the knowledge, technology, agility, and solutions when the unexpected happens.
