[CM] Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) for Crisis Management Program Implementation

Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) for Crisis Management Program Implementation

Implementing a crisis management program requires a structured approach. This Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) outlines the key phases involved.

The program begins with defining its goals, securing leadership support, and establishing a project charter. Following a comprehensive needs assessment that identifies potential crisis scenarios and gaps in preparedness, the program moves into development. This phase focuses on creating a crisis management plan with response procedures, a communication plan for stakeholders, and training materials for personnel.

The WBS then highlights securing resources like technology and personnel, followed by program implementation through training and testing the crisis management plan. Finally, ongoing program maintenance ensures the plan remains relevant through regular reviews, updates, and training to address evolving threats.

As shown below, this structured approach ensures a well-rounded crisis management program is built and maintained.

1. Project Management (Program Initiation)

(Deliverable: Project Charter)

Define project scope and objectives.
Identify key stakeholders and their roles.
Secure management approval and resources.
Develop a project charter outlining the scope, budget, timeline, and risks.

2. Crisis Risk Scenario Assessment (Needs Assessment)

(Deliverable: Crisis Risk Scenario Assessment Report)

Identify potential crisis scenarios (natural disasters, security breaches, etc.).
Analyse the likelihood and impact of each crisis scenario (risk assessment).
Conduct a gap analysis of existing crisis preparedness measures.

3. Crisis Management Strategy

(Deliverables: Crisis Management Strategy Report)

Develop a crisis management strategy based on the crisis scenario identified.

4. Crisis Management Plan Development (Program Development)

(Deliverables: Crisis Management Plan and Communication Plan, Training Materials)

Develop a crisis management plan outlining response procedures for each crisis scenario.
Include decision-making protocols, activation procedures, communication strategies, and resource allocation plans.
Develop a communication plan for internal and external stakeholders during a crisis.
Define communication channels, messages, and spokespersons.
Develop training materials for all personnel involved in the crisis response.

4a. Crisis Management Plan Development (Resource Acquisition)

(Deliverables: Secured Resources)
Identify and secure necessary resources (personnel, equipment, technology).
Develop a budget and resource allocation plan.
Procure necessary technology and software for crisis communication and response.

5. Testing and Exercising (Program Implementation)

(Deliverables: Trained Personnel, Tested Plan)

Conduct training programs for all personnel involved in the crisis response.
Include training on the crisis management plan, communication protocols, and specific roles/responsibilities.
The crisis management plan should be regularly tested through simulations and exercises.
Refine and update the plan based on lessons learned from testing.

6. Program Management (Maintenance)

(Deliverable: Ongoing Program Effectiveness)

Conduct regular reviews of the crisis management plan (annually or after a crisis).
Update the plan to reflect organisational changes, identified weaknesses, or new threats.
Maintain training programs and conduct refresher training as needed.
Monitor emerging threats and update the program accordingly.

Summing Up ...

This is a high-level WBS. Each section can be further divided into more detailed tasks with specific deliverables.

Resource

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.

Extracted from Analyse and Evaluate Sources of Risk

More Information About Crisis Management Courses

To learn more about the course and schedule, click the buttons below for the CM-300 Crisis Management Implementer [CM-3] and the CM-5000 Crisis Management Expert Implementer [CM-5].