Business Continuity Scenario Testing

Delivery Method

Virtual platform: Utilize a secure and user-friendly platform (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams) to facilitate online interaction and collaboration.

Interactive exercises: Employ a mix of group discussions, case studies, and role-playing activities to engage participants and promote active learning.

Real-world examples: Share relevant examples of BCP incidents and successes from other government organizations and industries.

Expert guidance: Provide expert instruction from an experienced BCP professional.

Course Objectives

• To provide participants with the knowledge and skills to effectively plan for and respond to business continuity scenarios within the Department of Education.
• To facilitate the development of organization-wide BCP test scenarios that reflect the Department's distributed structure.
• To equip participants with the ability to accurately react to disturbances and implement appropriate measures to address risks.
• Foster a culture of resilience and preparedness within the Department.

Course Structure:

1 - Introduction to Business Continuity Planning (BCP):

• Define BCP and its importance
• Importance of BCP for government organisations
• Discuss the Department's BCP framework and policies

2 - Risk Assessment and Management:

• Identify potential risks and threats specific to the Department (e.g., natural disasters, cyber attacks, pandemics)
• Analyse the impact of these risks on the Department's operations

3 - Scenario Development, Testing and Analysis:

• Case Studies: Present real-world examples of BCP scenarios relevant to the Department of Education (e.g., natural disasters, cyber attacks, pandemics, supply chain disruptions)
• Scenario mapping: Guide participants through the process of identifying potential scenarios based on the Department's unique characteristics (distributed campuses, regional offices, critical functions), ensuring scenarios align with organisational objectives and priorities

4 - Virtual Scenario Testing Exercises

• Facilitating group discussions and exercises to explore different scenarios
• Analysing the department's response capabilities and identifying areas for improvement in the Department's BCP

5 - Lessons Learned and Continuous Improvement:

• Discuss lessons learned from the scenario testing exercises and identify areas for improvement
• Discuss the importance of conducting post-incident reviews to evaluate the effectiveness of the BCP program and make necessary adjustments