Simple business impact analysis template

First, gather input from department heads about potential consequences of disruptions. Consider historical incidents and industry benchmarks. For each category, assess minimal (manageable disruption), moderate (significant challenges requiring resources), or significant (severe threats to business viability) based on your organization’s specific context and risk tolerance.

Consider both internal and external disruptions. Internal disruptions include IT outages, staff unavailability, and facility issues. External disruptions encompass natural disasters, supply chain failures, cyber attacks, utility outages, and regulatory changes. Focus on scenarios most relevant to your industry, location, and business model for a practical analysis.

Start with functions that generate revenue or directly serve customers. Then assess regulatory compliance functions where failures could result in penalties. Next, evaluate internal support functions critical to operations. This layered approach ensures you focus on areas where disruptions would cause the most significant organizational impact.

Focus on high-level strategies rather than detailed procedures. For example, note “Operations can be shifted to our west coast facility” rather than listing all transfer steps. The goal is identifying viable options, not creating comprehensive plans. Use the template to capture strategy direction, then develop detailed procedures in separate business continuity documents.