IT Disaster Recovery Plan Checklist ( IT )

This checklist outlines the essential steps to create and implement an IT disaster recovery plan to ensure business continuity in the event of a disaster or major incident. It provides guidance on preparing for, responding to, and recovering from disruptions affecting IT operations.

• Identify Critical Systems and Data

  List all critical systems and data that are essential for business operations. Prioritize based on their importance and impact on the business.

• Establish Recovery Time Objectives (RTOs)

  Define the maximum acceptable downtime for each critical system and data set to ensure that business operations can resume effectively.

• Develop Backup Strategies

  Determine the types of backups (full, incremental, differential) and the frequency of backups to ensure data integrity and availability.

• Create a Communication Plan

  Establish a plan for internal and external communication during a disaster. Specify roles and responsibilities for communication.

• Document Recovery Procedures

  Clearly outline the step-by-step procedures to follow for recovering each critical system and data set in the event of a disaster.

• Test the Disaster Recovery Plan

  Conduct regular drills and tests of the disaster recovery plan to ensure all team members understand their roles and that the plan is effective.

• Review and Update the Plan Regularly

  Set a schedule to review and update the disaster recovery plan regularly, especially after any significant IT changes or incidents.