Free Small Business Disaster Recovery Plan

I. Introduction

A. Purpose

The purpose of this Small Business Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP) is to provide small businesses with a comprehensive strategy to recover from disruptions and resume operations swiftly.

B. Scope

• This DRP covers all critical business functions and their associated systems.

• It applies to all locations where [Your Company Name] operates.

• This applies to all types of disruptions including natural disasters, cyber-attacks, and human errors.

C. Objectives

• Ensure the safety of employees and customers.

• Minimize downtime and financial losses.

• Recover critical business functions promptly.

• Protect and restore IT systems and data.

• Maintain communication with stakeholders.

II. Key Contacts

A. Disaster Recovery Team

B. Key External Contacts

1. CEO: [CEO Name]

   • Email: [CEO Email]

   • Phone Number: [CEO Phone Number]

2. IT Administrator: [IT Admin Name]

   • Email: [IT Admin Email]

   • Phone Number: [IT Admin Phone Number]

3. Operations Manager: [Operations Manager Name]

   • Email: [Operations Manager Email]

   • Phone Number: [Operations Manager Phone Number]

4. Local Emergency Services:

   • Phone Number: [Emergency Services Contact Information]

III. Risk Assessment

A. Risk Identification

Identify potential risks that could impact [Your Company Name]:

• Natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes, floods)

• Cyberattacks

• Power outages

• Equipment failures

• Supply chain disruptions

B. Impact Analysis

Analyze the potential impact of identified risks on business operations and prioritize them based on severity.

IV. Recovery Strategies

A. Data Backup and Recovery

• Regularly back up all critical data to an offsite location.

• Implement automated backup processes and verify backups weekly.

• Maintain a log of backup inventory and conduct periodic restoration tests.

B. Site Recovery

• Identify alternate locations to resume operations.

• Pre-arrange contracts with vendors for temporary office space and equipment.

• Develop relocation procedures and communicate them to all employees.

V. Communication Plan

A. Internal Communication

• Establish clear lines of communication between the disaster recovery team and employees.

• Utilize multiple channels (email, company intranet, SMS) for quick dissemination of information.

• Regular updates are to be provided during the recovery period.

B. External Communication

• Inform clients and stakeholders about the disruption and recovery process.

• Use social media, the company website, and direct emails for public communications.

• Designate a spokesperson for media inquiries.

VI. Plan Activation

A. Activation Criteria

Trigger Events:

• Loss of IT systems for more than 4 hours

• Significant disruption to operations due to a disaster

Decision Makers:

• CEO, IT Administrator, Operations Manager

B. Activation Procedures

Initial Response:

1. Assess the situation.

2. Activate the DRP.

3. Notify key personnel.

VII. Plan Testing and Maintenance

A. Testing

• Conduct regular drills and simulations to test the effectiveness of the plan.

• Document the outcomes and make necessary adjustments.

B. Maintenance

• Review and update the DRP at least annually or after any major changes to the business.

• Ensure all contact information and recovery procedures are up to date.

VIII. Appendices

A. Glossary of Terms

• DRP: Disaster Recovery Plan

• RTO: Recovery Time Objective

• RPO: Recovery Point Objective

B. Document Revision History

Plan Templates @ Template.net