London, UK: 12 December 2006: SunGard Availability Services’ research* unveiled today demonstrates considerable appetite for the new British Standard business continuity management (BCM), BS 25999. Safeguarding customer relationships (62% of responses) and differentiating from the competition (40%) topped the list of reasons for complying with the standard. However, only a tiny minority of organisations are actually placed to reap the benefits: just four per cent stated they are currently 100% compliant with the standard.
Respondents were highly positive about the likely impact of BS 25999. When asked about their view of the standard and its impact on their organisations, respondents said they would consider certifying against the standard (39% of responses), believed the standard would make BCM easier (33%), and was “well overdue” (25%).
The new standard is being developed by the British Standards Institution (BSI) in close collaboration with business, government and regulatory bodies. It comprises two separate parts: Part One, published in December 2006, lays down key BCM processes and definitions, and emphasises need for BC plans to support the business as a whole – rather than restricting its focus to IT. Part Two, due in mid-2007, defines the criteria for compliance with the Standard: organisations which successfully pass this stage will be able to adopt “Kitemark” certification against the standard.
“BS 25999 should transform many organisations’ approach to the way they operate,” comments Keith Tilley, managing director and senior vice president Europe, SunGard Availability Services. “Until now, many companies viewed BCM as little more than a box-ticking exercise – one that was generally confined to the IT department. Since IT touches every part of the business, it is imperative that any decisions that impact availability to customers – including business continuity – are made at the highest levels.”
Business Continuity Investment Drivers
Despite large scale disasters often dominating the news agenda, it is more mundane causes that are driving companies’ approach to BCM. The threat of terrorism and information security threats both ranked secondary to regulation and increased reliance on IT, when companies were asked to specify the main BCM investment driver within their organisations. Overall, almost three quarters of respondents plan to increase their investments in BCM next year.
Tilley said: “Now more than ever, business continuity should be a key component of boardroom discussions. We believe it is essential for directors to be accountable -- the most successful BCM begins with the board helping to define its scope, making provisions for review and maintenance.”
Other research findings
- Only 10% of companies said the threat of terrorism was the main BCM investment driver.
- 54% said regulation was the main BCM investment driver.
- 20% of companies polled said their strategy to keep information and people available and connected was purely reactive.
- 25% of companies think BS 25999 is well overdue.
* About the research
SunGard Availability Services (UK) Limited carried out the research in November 2006 at an event attended by organisations drawn from both public and private sectors. Over 80 organisations responded in total with 90% employing 250 people or more.