Why Your Organization Needs Both a Written Information Security Plan and a Business Continuity Plan

employees discussion their written information security plan in office

Almost every organization today deals with some type of electronic information. Whether it’s customer data, proprietary company information, or just records of everyday business operations, this data is extremely valuable and needs to be protected. 

Because much of this digital information is critical and sensitive, potentially losing it would be disastrous. And unfortunately, the digital landscape is rife with hackers itching to get their hands on private data for nefarious purposes. Cybercriminals don’t just target large organizations—any data is valuable data to them, and they know smaller organizations sometimes lack the cybersecurity enforcements to keep them out.

This is where written information security plans (WISPs) and business continuity plans (BCPs) come in.

What is a Written Information Security Plan?

A written information security plan is a document that outlines the security measures and protocols that your business will undertake to protect its electronic information. WISP compliance is required by law for businesses in certain sectors and can help you avoid costly data breaches. 

Many businesses struggle coming up with their own WISP and need expert guidance, and that’s where eMDTec can help you. We will get our team of experts working on a customized WISP that suits your needs. 

The Value of a Written Information Security Plan

A written information security plan is an important tool for protecting your organization’s digital information. By outlining specific security measures and protocols, you can make sure that your data is adequately protected. This can help you avoid costly data breaches, as well as fines and penalties for non-compliance within industries with strict regulations.

What is a Business Continuity Plan?

A business continuity plan (BCP) is a strategy that outlines how your organization will continue to operate in the event of an unexpected disruption. This could be anything from a natural disaster to a power outage. Not only does downtime cost a business about $5,600 per minute, but 40% of small to medium-sized businesses never reopen following a natural disaster.  

BCPs are important for keeping your business up and running in the face of adversity, ensuring you have a future. In the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, a solid, continually updated BCP is a proactive measure you can take to ensure your business doesn’t close its doors. 

The Value of a Business Continuity Plan

A business continuity plan is an essential tool for any organization. In the event of an unexpected disruption, a well-crafted BCP can help you keep your business running in the face of the unknown. This can minimize the financial impact of disruptions, help you maintain customer confidence in your company, and protect your employees from losing their livelihood. 

Similarities and Differences between a WISP & BCP 

While WISPs and business continuity plans both deal with protecting digital information, there are some important differences between the two. Simply put, WISPs are focused on specific security measures and protocols, while BCPs outline how your organization will continue to operate in the event of an unexpected disruption.

Despite their differences, WISPs and business continuity plans have one very important thing in common: they are both essential for protecting your organization’s digital information. By investing in both a WISP and a BCP, you can create a solid foundation for cybersecurity. 

eMDTec Can Help Secure Your Company’s Future

As you can see, having both a written information security plan and a business continuity plan is critical for any organization that relies on digital information. These plans serve different but complementary purposes, and eMDTec can help you with both! 

The first step to securing your data and your company’s future is partnering with an IT security provider. eMDTec offers a wide range of services to help optimize and improve your overall IT infrastructure and security. We’ll work as your partners, seeking IT solutions to your most stressful cybersecurity and business continuity challenges. Don’t be at the mercy of cybercriminals; contact us today to begin your IT security strategy!