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

Written by Moh Heng Goh | Nov 17, 2025 7:04:23 AM

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
eBook 3: Starting Your CM Implementation

[RAR] [T1-1]

[RAR] [T1-2]

[RAR] [T1-2] [Technology]

[RAR] [T2]

[RAR] [T3]

[CMS] [T1]

[CMS] [T2]

[PD] [CS] [1]

 

 

 

More Information About Crisis Management Blended/ Hybrid Learning 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].

Please feel free to send us a note if you have any questions.