Crisis Plans

We've simplified crisis communications plans, computerized them and made them more user friendly. More importantly, we've made them work.

We've been writing crisis plans for more than 20 years, including several documents covering global operations. We strive to make all of our plans as thorough as possible, while also assuring that they'll be of real use in a real crisis. Each plan is written in close cooperation with the client and particularly members of the crisis team.

Whenever possible, we visit the operations that would be covered by the plan, performing an informal "crisis audit," as well as talking with company representatives and getting their input on potential crisis situations. At the same time, we like to obtain as much information and material as possible from any current emergency response documents or existing crisis plans. We find we seldom have to start with a totally blank sheet.

The next step is actually drafting the plan. While we try to incorporate certain elements in every plan we write, we know content can change dramatically from one organization to another. We don't believe in "cookie-cutter" plans. While our past experience goes into each new plan, no two are ever alike.

We may meet with the client during the drafting process, occasionally asking for additional information, suggestions or their own advice on certain elements. Crisis team members will normally review sections of the plan prior to completion of the first draft. If necessary, we'll meet with the entire crisis team to go over our progress.

Once the draft is completed to our satisfaction, we then test it under simulated crisis conditions. We want to find out what works and what doesn't before showing it to the client.

The plan is then presented to the client for review and discussion. The client's comments, changes and suggestions are then incorporated into the final document.

Computerized crisis plans

Most of our clients today want "online" versions of their plan, along with the standard document. The two versions are generally put together simultaneously. The major advantage of the online version is that it is easy to access, easier to use and allows us to build a comprehensive document that retains simplicity. It doesn't suffer from the weight problems of a traditional document.

Online versions can be set up as a secure web site or a PDF document. These allow the user to move to where he or she needs to go at the click of a mouse button. A search feature is also incorporated into the online plan so you can find whatever you're looking for, even if you don't know where to look.

The plan can be loaded onto a laptop or PC, or utilized on an in-house network or secure intranet. Once on your network, it can be accessed by authorized users as easily as your Email.

We often help clients select their crisis team members and alternates and offer advice on what they need to do at locations other than their headquarters. If necessary, we create customized crisis plans for each site where the company has operations. We'll help them select and equip emergency operations centers and do just about anything else they feel is necessary.

You see while we design a lot of crisis plans, we don't design them for ourselves, but for our clients. Every one is designed to be used by real people to solve real problems in real crises.

For more information on our services, please call (614) 461-1333 or email us at info@wilson-group.com.