To ensure seamless communication between IT and non-tech teams during disaster recovery, start by developing a shared glossary to eliminate jargon and create a common language everyone understands. Assign tech-savvy liaisons who can act as translators, bridging gaps between technical and non-technical staff. Conduct joint training sessions and drills to practice clear communication and improve coordination. Use simple, role-based recovery protocols and establish pre-defined communication channels for emergencies. Implement a severity-based alert system to ensure everyone understands the urgency of the situation. Finally, hold post-incident reviews to debrief and refine processes for continuous improvement.

One strategy I have found particularly effective is developing comprehensive contingency plans. Through the implementation of both tabletop exercises and scenario-based simulations, we have been able to refine our approach and establish actionable plans to respond effectively to real-world disasters.

To make sure that there is seamless coordination during disaster recovery, organizations should: Develop a clear communication framework with defined roles and simple, jargon-free language. Conduct training and mock drills for IT and non-technical teams to practice real-time coordination. Use visual tools like dashboards and automated updates to keep all stakeholders informed. Appoint liaisons to bridge the communication gap between IT and non-tech teams. By taking these steps, organizations can foster clarity, trust, and efficiency in their disaster recovery efforts.

Begin by translating technical jargon into clear, outcome-focused language. Non-technical stakeholders need to understand the “why” and “how” of the plan without being overwhelmed by IT specifics. Clarity around roles is essential. Both IT and non-tech teams should know exactly who is responsible for what. Establish clear contact points and action plans tailored to each group’s expertise. Regular disaster simulations can help reinforce these roles, uncover communication gaps, and build confidence. Finally, leverage tools for real-time updates that are accessible to all. Platforms like shared dashboards or simple status notifications keep everyone aligned without unnecessary complexity.

To establish effective communication between IT and non-IT teams during disaster recovery, implement a clear, pre-defined communication plan with accessible channels for all stakeholders. Use simple, non-technical language to explain IT impacts, recovery progress, and action items. Assign liaisons to bridge the gap between technical and business teams, ensuring alignment on priorities and responsibilities. Conduct regular cross departmental training and simulations to build familiarity and trust, fostering seamless coordinaton during actual incidents.

Para garantir uma comunicação eficiente entre TI e as áreas não tecnológicas durante a recuperação de desastres, é essencial estabelecer um plano de comunicação claro e acessível. Isso envolve traduzir termos técnicos em linguagem simples, definir papéis e responsabilidades de forma objetiva e criar canais diretos para atualizações constantes. A equipe de TI deve se preparar para explicar o andamento das ações de recuperação e ouvir as necessidades das outras áreas, garantindo que todos entendam o plano e os próximos passos. A preparação e o treinamento contínuo são fundamentais para um resultado positivo e ágil na tratativa do desastre.

What I have found that gets lost in translation the most is the definition of a "Disaster". Clearly defined plans and goals during a disaster are key. In those plans should be the identifiable process and people that need to be involved. All too often there are "Too many cooks stirring the pot." This slows the process down as things are need to be repeated and explained over and over. Concerning the dictionary of terms. This should already be clearly defined from the top level of the change management organization. Then the playing field is level going into any situation.