Guidelines for implementation of a Business Continuity Management Programme

Abstract

Business continuity management (BCM) has evolved since the 1970s in response to the technical and operational risks that threaten an organization’s strategic recovery from hazards and interruptions. The dissertation addresses the lack of practical examples, hints & tips and of the challenges faced and managed during the realization of BCM programmes by collecting data and analytical insights from practitioner lived experiences. Collection of such data and knowledge development could ensure that both practitioners and requestors/decision makers have a common approach and understanding that will secure and justify the added value, effort and cost of the implementation of a BCM programme. The objectives of the research are: 1. Indicate a structured approach for the implementation of a BCM programme and a way to integrate BCM in organization’s operational model 2. Address challenges and gaps identified, during the implementation of such programmes, through live experience and the realization of related surveys 3. Provide guidance and examples for the implementation of all stages of BCM lifecycle in compliance with international standards and industry practices 4. Include roles, responsibilities and profiles of key stakeholders supporting such implementation The methodology research applied in this dissertation is qualitative and involves collecting and analyzing data from the below presented sources: a. Literature Review b. Lived experience by the execution of projects and implementation of BCM programmes in a variety of organizations and industries c. Questionnaire covering the entire BCM lifecycle aiming to identify and record the main challenges faced and managed by BCM practitioners and involved stakeholders during such implementations d. Structured and unstructured interviews with BCM professionals