This IDC PlanScape provides CIOs, CISOs, and business leaders with a structured approach to launching or evolving their tabletop recovery exercise programs, covering why these exercises matter, what makes them successful, who needs to be involved, and how to use them as a lever for strategic improvement. According to Gerald Johnston, adjunct research advisor for IDC's IT Executive Programs, "A well-run tabletop exercise is the most effective way to prepare leaders for high-stakes disruption. It transforms disaster recovery from a policy into a practiced capability and turns uncertainty into readiness."
IDC PlanScape Figure
Executive Summary
Why Are Tabletop Recovery Exercises Important?
What Are Tabletop Recovery Exercises?
Who are the Key Stakeholders?
How Can My Organization Take Advantage of Tabletop Recovery Exercises?
Plan with Purpose
Leverage Risk Assessments in Planning
Execute with Rigor and Flexibility
Include the Centralized IT Command Center
Clarify Roles Between the IT Command Center and the Security Operations Center
Develop Cross-Organizational RACI Charts
Debrief and Drive Improvement
Integrate Findings into Tools and Processes
Track Improvement Over Time
Make It Part of the Culture
Advice for Technology Buyers
Strategic Actions: Elevate Tabletop Exercises Beyond IT
Tactical Actions: Operationalize and Scale Tabletop Impact
From Event to Evolution
Related Research
Research Assistance
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