[CM] [OCBC] [E3] [CMS] [T1] Crisis Prevention Strategy

Crisis Prevention Strategy

Introduction

Crisis prevention is the foundational phase of an effective crisis management program.

For OCBC Bank, proactively identifying potential threats and crisis scenarios ensures the continuity of operations, protects financial assets, and maintains stakeholder confidence.

This chapter aligns with BCM Institute’s CST1 v2 methodology, categorizing crises into nine types: Natural, Technological, Confrontation, Malevolence, Organisational Misdeeds (including skewed management values, deception, and management misconduct), Workplace Violence, Rumours, Lack of Funds, and Natural Factors.

For each, a targeted prevention strategy is outlined to mitigate risk before it escalates into a full-scale crisis.

Crisis Prevention Strategy Table – OCBC Bank

Crisis Type	Types of Threats/ Crisis Scenario	Crisis Prevention Strategy	Details of Crisis Prevention Strategy
Natural	Floods, Earthquakes, Storms	Structural & Technical	Implement resilient infrastructure, backup power systems, and physical safeguards at branches and data centres. Conduct regular disaster drills.
Technological	Cyberattacks, System Outages, IT Failures	Strategic & Technical	Deploy robust cybersecurity measures, redundant IT systems, and continuous monitoring. Conduct penetration tests and IT audits.
Confrontation	Customer/Employee Disputes, Strikes	Communication & Psychological	Establish clear grievance channels, engage stakeholders early, and maintain open communication. Conflict resolution training for managers.
Malevolence	Fraud, Sabotage, Insider Threats	Strategic & Evaluation	Conduct rigorous background checks, enforce segregation of duties, and implement monitoring systems. Regular internal audits.
Organisational Misdeeds – Skewed Management Values	Risky Investment Decisions, Aggressive Growth	Strategic & Cultural	Promote ethical leadership, implement governance frameworks, and establish risk appetite guidelines. Regular board-level oversight.
Organisational Misdeeds – Deception	Misreporting, Non-Disclosure	Evaluation & Communication	Implement internal whistleblowing systems, transparency protocols, and audit trails. Train staff on compliance and reporting standards.
Organisational Misdeeds – Management Misconduct	Conflict of Interest, Breach of Policies	Evaluation & Cultural	Enforce code of conduct, provide ethics training, and establish disciplinary mechanisms. Conduct periodic management evaluations.
Workplace Violence	Assault, Threats, Harassment	Psychological & Communication	Implement workplace safety protocols, staff training, and rapid response teams. Promote a zero-tolerance policy for violence.
Rumours	False Information on Social Media, Market Speculation	Communication & Strategic	Monitor social media and news outlets, prepare accurate public communication, and deploy crisis communication plans swiftly.
Lack of Funds	Liquidity Crisis, Funding Shortage	Strategic & Technical	Maintain liquidity buffers, diversify funding sources, and implement early warning indicators for cash flow stress.
Due to Natural Factors	Epidemics, Health Hazards	Strategic & Technical	Health and safety protocols, vaccination programs, hygiene standards, and remote work capabilities. Continuous monitoring of public health advisories.

OCBC Bank’s crisis prevention strategy emphasizes early identification and mitigation of threats across natural, technological, organisational, and social domains.

By integrating structural, technical, strategic, communication, and cultural measures, the bank strengthens resilience, ensures business continuity, and protects stakeholders.

Adopting the CST1 v2 methodology provides a systematic framework to anticipate crises, reduce vulnerabilities, and maintain operational stability in an increasingly complex risk environment.

Leading Through Crisis: Implementing Crisis Management at OCBC Bank
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