Continuity of Operations Planning (COOP) is a fundamental element of government risk management that involves the preparation for and carrying out of activities to prevent, avoid, and recover from significant disruptions to a department or agency’s ability to perform its essential functions. COOP is not about maintaining ‘business as usual’, but about ensuring the performance of minimum essential functions during any emergency or situation that may disrupt normal operations.
COOP planning involves identifying essential functions and resources, establishing policies and procedures, developing plans and implementing them, conducting training, and evaluating and revising the process. The emphasis is on preserving the organization’s capability to function under adverse conditions and to resume full operations as quickly and smoothly as possible. It is a vital strategic tool for organizations that want to ensure their ability to deliver services and maintain operations, despite any unforeseen circumstances.
