Question:  Disaster planning is really on our minds.  We have good procedures for retrieving data, but we are concerned about how we handle our staff.  Any ideas?

Answer:  Be sure that you have a communications plan.  This should include maintaining an updated list of key employees' contact information (keep it safe!).  Set up an alternative message board that employees can log onto for information.  Test to make sure that everyone knows how to use it and that it works for you.  Be sure that you have communications systems that work even when disaster strikes.  Coordinate with your telecommunications provider to assure that you have established your plan and that you have the priority that you will need to get back up once the crisis has passed.

You might also consider using IBAT’s Emergency Hotline as a backup communications plan.