Imagine this: a fire, hurricane, cyberattack, or even a global pandemic strikes tomorrow. Your business is disrupted. Operations come to a halt.
How quickly could you bounce back?
If you don’t have a business continuity or disaster preparedness plan, the honest answer might be—not soon enough. But here’s the good news: with the right planning, you can be ready for anything before disaster strikes.
These past few years have shown us just how vulnerable families and businesses can be. From wildfires and floods to ransomware attacks, unexpected crises have disrupted lives across the country. The lesson? Preparedness isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Here’s how to safeguard your business and ensure resilience in the face of disruption:
Do you know where your most critical business data lives?
If you lost access to your office today, would you still be able to retrieve your files?
Start by ensuring that all vital documents and data are:
Digitized
Backed up
Stored in a secure, cloud-based system
This gives you the flexibility to access important records anytime, from anywhere—crucial in any emergency scenario.
If your business is still relying on desktop-only or physical systems, it’s time to move to cloud-based platforms.
Cloud software allows your team to:
Collaborate remotely
Access tools and data offsite
Maintain key functions even if your physical location is compromised
Think of it as future-proofing your operations.
Does your current policy include business interruption coverage?
If not, talk to your insurance broker. A well-crafted policy should cover income loss, operational downtime, and recovery costs in the event of disaster. This safety net can mean the difference between a quick rebound or permanent closure.
In a crisis, how will you communicate with your team?
Build a plan for:
Emergency communication (text chains, email protocols, etc.)
Remote work frameworks
Ensuring secure access to company resources
Being able to shift to a remote setup quickly can help keep your business running when the unexpected happens.
Once you’ve addressed the basics, it’s time to put it all together in a written disaster preparedness and business continuity plan. This should include:
An assessment of potential risks (weather, power outages, cyber threats, etc.)
Response and recovery strategies
Roles and responsibilities for staff
Key contacts and vendor information
Don’t forget to test and update your plan regularly—your business evolves, and so should your preparedness.
Your business isn’t the only thing that needs protection.
Ensure your personal assets are secured as well:
Review home and life insurance
Digitize important documents and family memories
Inventory valuable property and belongings
A comprehensive disaster plan includes both your business and your home life.
You’ve worked hard to build your business. Now it’s time to protect it.
Reach out to your accountant or advisor to start crafting your continuity plan. With the right preparation, you can keep your business resilient and your legacy intact—no matter what comes your way.
Protect your business. Protect your legacy. Let’s talk.
Associate Partner
Ren III provides tax, accounting, and advisory services to a broad range of clients, with a specialty for manufacturers, title insurance companies, and professional service providers.
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