Exploring the characteristics and impact of information technology crisis on a company

Abstract

Many companies do not usually consider the impact that a crisis can have on their business and also their employees. However, a crisis can be evoked by any situation or event that has detrimental effect on the business ranging from fire, technology outage, product withdrawal, rumours and natural disasters, to terrorism. Most companies think that they are prepared for a crisis as they have a business continuity plan in place but is this enough? Especially if a crisis related to 'information technology' infrastructure happens, how should the management act in order to prevent or minimize any damage to business continuity, its long term brand reputation and the negative impact on its employees? In this paper, a case study of an international company in a turbulent environment will be discussed. The goal is to conduct an 'impact analyses' of the crisis in the information technology department and how it affected daily business, processes and employees. Which decisions were taken, what were the results? Possible alternative decisions, preventions for future similar situations will be also discussed.