Continuity Of Operations & Continuity Of Government
During a disaster or unexpected event, an entity's ability to carry out essential functions may be severely affected. To mitigate disruptions, government agencies implement a Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) to maintain critical operations during anticipated threats and restore full functionality as quickly as possible.
A COOP plan provides a framework for adapting operational procedures, personnel policies, and sustaining essential functions. It serves as a guide for utilizing available resources and identifying necessary support to ensure the organization's continuity during and after an emergency or disaster.
Elements of a COOP Plan
A comprehensive COOP will integrate the following elements:
- Essential Functions
- Human Capital/Key Personnel
- Delegations of Authority and Orders of Succession
- Communications
- Vital Records, Databases, Systems, and Equipment
- Alternate Facilities
- Reconstitution and Devolution
- Training, Exercise, and Evaluation Program of COOP Plan
- Teams
- Security and Access Protocols
- Alert and Notification Procedures
For more information on developing a COOP and information on continuity principles, please see FEMA’s Continuity Guidance Circular document.
Resources
Key Definitions
- Delegation of Authority: Certain tasks that are assigned in anticipation of a COOP event from one employee to another.
- Devolution: The process of continuing essential functions only (worst-case scenario planning).
- Key Personnel: Personnel that perform essential functions and/or critical processes.
- Orders of Succession: Planning to fill a vacant position with an employee who can perform the position's tasks.
- Reconstitution: Returning to normal operations.
- Recovery Time: How soon functions, equipment, personnel, etc. can be up and running.
- Vital Records: Records essential to the protection of the legal and financial rights of an agency and of individuals directly affected by the agency's activities.