Having 20 years in IT, I tell every client—it’s not if but when an incident will occur. When that time comes, preparation is key. If your business lacks a response plan, it’s critical to create one—even if it’s not perfect.

Start by asking:

• How long can my business afford to be down?

• What core functions rely on IT?

• What’s a realistic recovery time?

These answers help shape your plan and define stakeholder roles. Assign responsibility for maintaining the plan, even through employee turnover, and ensure all involved understand their priorities and communication protocols. Speaking of communication—who needs to be informed, when, and how often? Without training, even the best plan fails. Regular incident simulations and audits ensure your business is truly prepared.

If your team could use guidance, let’s connect—we’re here to help. Follow us to stay updated or reach out to Handled It Partners.