MMN630233 Crisis and Operational Resilience Coursework GCA

Introduction to the Module

The main purpose of this module handbook is to provide you with a comprehensive guide for this module. In this handbook you will find information and advice that should prove helpful as you progress through the module.

The module will examine operational resilience and crisis management within the prevailing and increasingly digital environment.

A resilient organisation is able to learn from incidents, exercises and near misses, in order to foster adaptability. Just as Disaster Recovery widened its remit to become BCM, so the Business Continuity concept that superseded it increasingly requires managers to engage with the organization’s strategy moving beyond post-incident response to create learning processes throughout the whole organisation. The metaphor of ‘bouncing forward’ is often invoked.

Using the BCM lifecycle the module will demonstrate how to undertake an analysis of the business environment, prepare analytical frameworks, for example ‘the balanced scorecard’, implement BCM systems, and ensure that a process of regular monitoring, testing and exercising takes place. The importance of embedding operational resilience in organisational culture is discussed as a key element of this entire process. This module also examines the implementation of Crisis Management and Crisis Communication strategies before and after a disruptive event in order to mitigate impacts or exploit opportunities using real-world examples.

In reference to digitalisation, the impact of digital change on business is profound and wide ranging. The management of data has become a paramount source of opportunity risk and hazard risk for most businesses. The module will encourage reflection on digital changes throughout the business environment including, but not limited to big data, supply and distribution channels, the growth and impact of remote working exacerbated by Covid19, the emergence of cyber resilience as a key concern, and the role of social media for businesses.

The module will familiarise students with the multifaceted crisis preparedness required in the business environment and equip them with key risk management skills to participate in BCM and wider resilience processes across organisational contexts.

Essay Question

Question: Critically analyse the integration of Business Continuity Management (BCM) principles and crisis management strategies in the context of the digital business environment, focusing on how these frameworks can enhance the ability of businesses to plan for and respond to unforeseen disruptions effectively.

The deadline for this coursework is 20:00 GMT on 09/04/2024.

Guidance: You should critically evaluate how different BCM frameworks have been operationalised by organisations. This should involve detailing business continuity approaches exemplified by organisations facing crises and engaged in crisis communication efforts. It is expected that you consider specific frameworks such as ISO 22301, NIST SP 800-34 Rev. 1, and COBIT, contrasting and comparing advantages and disadvantages appropriately.  Ensure that you draw upon the relevant theory and concepts studied throughout the entire module and refer to a range of academic and professional journal articles and texts.