Data loss can cripple a business through financial losses, setbacks, and ruined customer relations. It’s imperative that you have a disaster recovery plan in place to mitigate the effects, and there’s no better time than now to start. Below is a helpful guide you and your IT team can use so you’re prepared when the unexpected occurs.

How to Build a Disaster Recovery Plan for Your Business

1. Know What You Stand to Lose

Start by making an inventory of all your hardware and software assets. Include computers, tablets, servers, email accounts, computer programs, third-party subscription services, and telecom connections. This inventory shows you everything your business relies on to function. Should a data breach or natural disaster occur, you’ll know what you need to pick up to start moving again.

Think also of customer data. Documenting credit card numbers or other private information will help you best understand what hackers will target so you can create a cybersecurity plan.

2. Implement Auto-Backups to the Cloud

The cloud is the safest place to store your data. Once you’ve found a preferred cloud services provider, set up an auto-backup system for all the computers in your office. Software on these devices will back up all your data at regular intervals, such as daily, weekly, or monthly, and then conveniently organize it in the cloud.

You can also back up entire computers. Should your hardware be destroyed in a fire, employees can log into a new computer and download their former desktop to it.

3. Create a Backup Communication Plan

You’ll need to maintain tight communication with employees when a natural disaster strikes. If emails fail, ensure there’s a phone system or remote office switchboard.

Provide mobile devices to text or online chat services. It’s wise to extend this communication plan to partners, customers, and suppliers so you can get business running again as soon as possible.

4. Know Your Threats

Knowing what could impact you will help you create detailed plans on how to recover should each threat happen. If your area is prone to flooding, have a safe place to set up a temporary office if your building is compromised.

It’s best to partner with a reliable disaster recovery service. Businesses in Pompano Beach, FL, work with Telecom Consulting Group. These professionals offer a variety of telecom solutions, including cloud services, internet, and cable. You can begin exploring their full scope of services by visiting their website or calling (954) 776-5000 to speak with a master agent.