Business Continuity refers to plans and procedures intended to keep critical business operations running in the event of a disaster.

The cornerstones of business continuity are the standards, programs, policies, plans and practices needed to guarantee a firm continues without stoppage, regardless of unfavorable situations or events — from storms and flooding to cyberattacks or security threats. In order to achieve business continuity, all system plans, implementation, support and maintenance must be strategically aligned for success.

While business continuity is sometimes confused with disaster recovery, it’s important to remember that disaster recovery is only one component of a business continuity strategy. Business continuity isn’t simply an emergency response protocol to be implemented when a disaster strikes. Instead, it refers to those actions carried out daily to sustain service, stability and recoverability. Business continuity encompasses everyday tasks such as project management, system backups and help desk operations. It also includes planning for contingencies such as work area recovery seating, which is available to workers when access to their office is denied due to natural or manmade disruptions.