The different types of business continuity software include disaster recovery, risk management, crisis management and information security. Selecting which type of business continuity software to implement depends on the current and future needs of the business. Before making a purchase, a business continuity plan should be developed that highlights the business’s specific needs and expectations for the software. For instance, if the goal is to be prepared in case of a crisis and recover any lost information, then the business may want to invest in both disaster recovery and crisis management business continuity software.
Disaster recovery software includes a variety of features for replicating, protecting and recovering applications or files. This software protects the business in case of an unexpected disaster, accident or change in management that causes files to be damaged or deleted. It should integrate with the business’s applications, such as Microsoft Exchange or SQL server, so that recovery of its sensitive information is more likely to be successful. This type of business continuity software should also automatically save data at scheduled times and allow for a choice of multiple recovery points.
Risk management software enables businesses to predict and monitor risk, such as with its clients, accounts, competition and business developments. It provides decision-makers with a tool to avoid hazards, balance risks and rewards and adhere to compliance. This type of business continuity software usually offers businesses an option for real-time, constant risk assessment that alerts specified people within the organization in case of an imminent risky event. It should offer comprehensive data management, predictive analytical tools, easy reporting and allow for quick importing and exporting of data.
Crisis management software allows organization to reduce the time it takes from entering a crisis to taking action. It allows for communication throughout the team or company, coordination between multiple employees or departments, and collaboration between everyone involved. This type of business continuity software is not a replacement for crisis management planning and mitigation, but for enhancing crisis planning and improving responses when faced with an emergency.
Information security software provides businesses with the tools needed to secure the business’s information and systems from unauthorized access, changes or destruction. Businesses typically collect and store its company and customer data on computers, then transmit it across networks, making it vulnerable to security breaches, being handled inappropriately and falling into the hands of those outside the organization. If the data or information is leaked to outside parties, there is a possibility for lawsuits or competitors gaining access to company secrets.