Disaster Recovery Plan

Purpose

The purpose of this Disaster Recovery Plan is to outline procedures for RSO Consulting to respond to significant disruptions in operations, specifically tailored for a fully remote workforce. This plan focuses on restoring access to critical cloud-based applications, ensuring data integrity, and minimizing downtime.

Scope

This DRP applies to all cloud-hosted IT systems, data, and remote employee devices used by RSO Consulting, including Google Workspace, communication platforms (e.g., Slack, Zoom), and other critical business applications.

Objectives

  • Restore critical business functions within targeted recovery times.
  • Ensure the integrity and security of all business and client data.
  • Maintain clear communication with clients and employees throughout the recovery process.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Disaster Recovery Team (DRT): Manages the DRP execution, assesses damage, and coordinates the recovery.
  • IT Manager: Oversees restoration of cloud systems, manages remote device security, and liaises with cloud providers.
  • Communications Lead: Ensures timely updates to clients, employees, and stakeholders during and after the incident.

Disaster Recovery Procedures

Initial Assessment

  • Evaluate the impact of the disruption on cloud systems and remote access.
  • Notify the Disaster Recovery Team to initiate the DRP if necessary.
  • Document incident details, including the cause, affected systems, and estimated downtime.

Data Backup and Restoration

  • Cloud-Based Backup: Ensure all critical data is backed up in Google Workspace and verified by regular checks.
  • Remote Device Protocol: Employees are instructed to store work files on approved, encrypted cloud storage rather than local drives.
  • Data Restoration: Initiate data recovery from cloud backups, prioritizing access to client files, project management systems, and communication tools.

System Restoration and Access Verification

  • Cloud Service Restoration: Work with cloud providers (e.g., Google Workspace, Slack) to restore functionality and address any security breaches.
  • Remote Device Access Testing: Ensure that all employees can securely access cloud services from their devices once restored.
  • Alternate Access Measures: If primary cloud services are unavailable, establish backup solutions, such as alternate communication platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams as a backup to Slack).

Communication Plan

  • Internal Communications: Use designated platforms (e.g., email, Slack, Zoom) to update employees on recovery status and interim steps.
  • Client Communication: Notify clients about the disruption, estimated recovery times, and any temporary solutions in place.
  • Regular Updates: Provide scheduled updates to all parties throughout the recovery process until full operations resume.

Security of Remote Devices and Networks

  • Device Compliance: Ensure employee devices meet security standards, including encryption, VPN access, and antivirus protection.
  • Endpoint Monitoring: Activate remote monitoring tools to confirm that all employee devices comply with security policies during and after the recovery process.

Testing and Maintenance

  • Annual Testing: Test the DRP annually to validate remote recovery procedures and identify potential gaps in the plan.
  • Remote Scenario Testing: Test remote access restoration from various locations and devices to ensure that recovery steps align with the remote work environment.

Post-Recovery Review

  • Evaluation: Conduct a post-recovery review to assess the DRP’s effectiveness, focusing on remote access and cloud system recovery.
  • Employee Feedback: Gather feedback from remote employees on accessibility and recovery experience to identify improvements.
  • Plan Updates: Update the DRP as needed based on feedback, changes in cloud services, or business operations.

Plan Approval and Review

This DRP is reviewed annually and updated as necessary to ensure it reflects RSO Consulting's remote operational needs and current technology stack.