1. Assess how your company functions, both internally and externally, to determine which staff, materials, procedures, and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep the business operating.

2. Review your business process flow chart, if one exists, to identify operations critical to survival and recovery. Include emergency payroll, expedited financial decision-making and accounting systems to track and document costs in the event of a disaster. Establish procedures for succession of management including at least one person who is not at the company headquarters, if possible.

3. Decide who should participate in putting together your emergency plan. Include co-workers from all levels in planning and as active members of the emergency management team. Consider a broad cross-section of people from throughout your organization, but focus on those with expertise vital to daily business functions. These will likely include people with technical skills as well as managers and executives.

4. Make a list of your most important customers and plan ways to serve them during and after a disaster. Also identify key suppliers, shippers, resources, and other businesses you must interact with on a daily basis. Develop professional relationships with more than one company in case your primary contractor cannot meet your needs. A disaster that shuts down a key supplier can be devastating to your business.

5. Finally, plan what you will do if your building, plant, or store is not accessible. Enroll in the Coporate Emergency Access System to gain access to restriced areas following an emergency. Define crisis management procedures and individual responsibilities in advance. Talk with your staff or co-workers and frequently review and practice what you intend to do during and after an emergency.

What Does It Cost? (in PDF)
Download a sample business continuity plan