FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For Further Information Contact:
Vincent D'Amico
DAMICON
www.damicon.com
Burlington, MA (December 10th, 2003) - "Disaster drives customers into the arms of someone else who can deliver," says Vin D'Amico, Founder and Principal of DAMICON, specialists in help desk design, information technology, and change management. "About 60 percent of businesses that experience a major disaster go under within two years." He explains how to avoid that fate in the 2004 Handbook of Business Strategy.
"Many companies plan," explains D'Amico, "but they don't plan hard enough." Selecting a planning team leader and an executive sponsor, then giving them real authority, is essential. "Different departments have to cooperate. Someone needs the authority to clear roadblocks, cross boundaries, and resolve issues-before the disaster strikes."
D'Amico points out that documenting intangible know-how and processes is as crucial as protecting equipment and inventory. If critical information is in someone's head but not documented, you are far more exposed than you think.
Disaster planning should include customers, suppliers, and others who will be affected if your operations are shut down. "The people who depend on you are the ones who can help you through a disaster," says D'Amico. "Large customers can help manage order flow and work around short-term supply disruptions. Suppliers can hold or re-route shipments. They might even ship directly to your big accounts."
At least once a year, test the plan with a mock disaster. "As your business grows or changes, your plan has to change, too," advises D'Amico. "Any time you undertake a major initiative, make survival planning part of the project."
"Disasters are things you cannot control, but survival planning is all about things you can control," says D'Amico. "Disasters can often be avoided simply by following proper administration procedures. Are your computers backed up regularly? And when was the last time you had your roof inspected? If you're prepared, you'll be a survivor!"
To read the full article, "10 Steps for Surviving a Disaster!" visit the resources page.
Vin D'Amico is a Founder and Principal of DAMICON. He is an executive experienced in Open Software Transition, Help Desk Design, and Change Management with a record of accomplishment. He has over 25 years of experience in the software industry including 18 years as a manager and executive. He has worked for industry leading companies such as Keane, 3M Touch Systems, Kronos, NetManage and Wang.
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