[CM] Step 4C: Determine the Objectives for Implementing Crisis Management

What are the key objectives to consider when implementing Crisis management?

Some key objectives to consider when implementing a crisis management project for an organisation are as follows:

1. Minimise Loss and Damage

• This is the primary objective of any crisis management plan.
• The goal is to take actions that limit the negative impact of a crisis on people, property, reputation, and financial resources.

2. Ensure Safety and Well-being

• This includes the safety of employees, customers, and the public during a crisis.
• The plan should outline procedures for evacuation, sheltering in place, and medical attention.

3. Maintain Business Continuity

• A crisis can disrupt normal operations. The objective is to have a plan that allows critical business functions and services to continue with minimal interruption.
• This includes identifying critical personnel, systems, and processes.

4. Protect Reputation

• A well-managed crisis can minimise damage to your organization's reputation.
• The objective is to communicate effectively and transparently with stakeholders throughout the crisis.

5. Restore Public Trust

• Following a crisis, the objective is to rebuild trust with stakeholders by demonstrating a commitment to learning from the experience and preventing future occurrences.

6. Enhance Organisational Resilience

• A crisis management plan should address immediate response and make the organization more resilient to future crises.
• This includes identifying weaknesses and implementing improvements.

7. Legal & Regulatory Compliance

• Some industries have specific regulations regarding crisis response.
• The objective is to ensure your plan adheres to all relevant legal and regulatory requirements.

8. Improve Decision-Making

• A clear crisis management plan provides a framework for making quick and effective decisions during a crisis.
• The objective is establishing a structure that facilitates clear communication and informed action.

9. Foster Staff Morale

• A crisis can be stressful for employees.
• The objective is to have a plan that provides clear guidance and support, helping staff feel empowered to contribute to the response effort.

10. Continuous Improvement

• No plan is perfect.
• The objective is to establish a culture of continuous improvement by reviewing and updating the crisis management plan after each incident.
• This ensures the plan remains effective over time.

Summing Up ...

Considering these objectives, you can develop a crisis management project that effectively prepares your organisation to navigate any crisis and emerge stronger.

Goh, M. H. (2016). A Manager’s Guide to Implement Your Crisis Management Plan. Business Continuity Management Specialist Series (1st ed., p. 192). Singapore: GMH Pte Ltd

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