Workbook overview

Introduction

This workbook provides examples, templates and checklists, for each element of the business continuity management program identified in the 2009 version of the ANAO’s Better Practice Guide Business Continuity Management: Building resilience in public sector entities.

This workbook should be read in conjunction with the better practice guide - explanatory material for each element of the business continuity management program is provided in the better practice guide.

There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to the development of a business continuity program. While this workbook provides entities with examples, templates and checklists for each step in the business continuity program, it is important that entities analyse and assess, in turn, their specific needs, as well as the extent to which the templates are relevant to their entity’s objectives, critical business processes and business continuity strategy.

It may not be necessary for an entity to complete all of the templates included, nor does the workbook consist of an exhaustive listing of templates and checklists that may be applicable to some entities. Entities are encouraged to be pro-active in selecting templates to use that will be beneficial for their business continuity management program. Entities are also encouraged to alter the templates so that they are relevant to organisational objectives, the nature and function of the business, the size of the entity, and the locations and distribution of their people, assets and clients.

Note: Some examples sourced from public sector entities use entity specific terminology, which may be inconsistent with the terminology used in other areas of the better practice guide and workbook.

Figure A depicts the structure of the workbook.

Figure A - Structure of this workbook