[CM] Definition of a Partial Crisis Management Simulation Exercise

Definition of a Partial CM Simulation Exercise

A Partial Crisis Management Simulation Exercise is a targeted, limited-scope drill that tests specific components of an organisation’s crisis response without executing a full-scale, multi-departmental simulation.

It focuses on one function, team, or crisis management phase under controlled conditions.

Pre-reading for Participants Attending Module 4 of the CM-5000 Crisis Management Expert Implementer Course

Key Characteristics

Limited Scope
- Tests a single aspect of crisis response (e.g., communication protocols, IT recovery, decision-making by leadership).
- Example: A simulated cyberattack only involving the IT and legal teams.
Controlled Complexity
- Fewer injects (trigger events) than a full-scale exercise.
- May exclude external stakeholders (e.g., media, regulators).
Hybrid Approach
- Often combines tabletop discussions with functional actions (e.g., role-playing a press briefing).
Shorter Duration
- Typically lasts 1–4 hours (vs. days for full-scale exercises).

Types of Partial CM Simulations

Type	Focus Area	Example
Departmental Drill	Single team (e.g., IT, PR, Operations)	The IT team responds to a ransomware attack.
Phase-Specific Test	One crisis phase (e.g., detection)	Leadership assesses initial incident reports.
Tool/System Test	Technology or procedure validation	Testing mass notification systems.

When to Use a Partial Simulation

After plan updates (test new protocols in isolation).
This is for training new team members (low-pressure environment).
Before a full-scale exercise, identify gaps in specific areas.
For high-risk functions (e.g., frequent cyber drills for SOC teams).

Advantages vs. Full-Scale Exercises

Partial Simulation	Full-Scale Simulation
Lower cost & resource requirements	High resource intensity
Faster to plan/execute	Longer duration (days/weeks)
Ideal for skill-building	Tests end-to-end coordination

Example Scenario

Objective

Test the PR team’s ability to draft and approve a crisis statement within 30 minutes.

Injects

"A data breach is reported on social media."
"CEO demands a press release before the market opens."

Outcome Measured

Speed, message accuracy, and chain of approval.

Partial simulations bridge the gap between tabletop discussions and full-scale drills, offering a practical way to refine crisis readiness incrementally.

Types of Crisis Management Exercises

Design and Develop Crisis Management Exercises

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].