AST gains momentum in business continuity market

As a result of an ongoing programme to ensure prudent risk reduction for its clients, AST is gaining momentum in the business continuity market. As sole authorised distributor of Strohl Systems in SA, AST is able to provide its customers in assisting them to resume key business operations before unacceptable impacts and losses are incurred.

Strohl Systems is the proven global leader in business continuity planning software and services.

AST can provide assistance in a business continuity planning programme by assisting clients in programme authorisation, business continuity plan (BCP) development and the recovery plan, as well as availability and survivability components such as UPS and redundant telecommunication systems.

"A business continuity programme is not a project nor is it a one-time task with a fixed duration. BCP must be an ongoing, living programme," explains Bryce Thorrold of AST. "The ability to recover key systems and processes is directly related to the maturity of an organisation`s BCP maturity. The most prepared organisations from a recoverability perspective and speed of recovery are those that have documented, tested and maintained plans with personnel who are regularly trained in BCP practices."

A number of factors are driving the increase in the demand for business continuity solutions. These range from international industry and country standards and regulations, to corporate governance laws (US Sarbanes-Oxley act of 2002, UK Turnbull Report and Higgs Report, the second Basel Capital Accord - Basel II), to the fear of terrorist disasters.

In addition, the potential financial exposures of an interruption in service can reach millions per hour. These financial factors along with the potential for loss of client confidence and market share if a major interruption in service occurs are driving senior management and boards of directors to mandate a fully implemented and tested business continuity plan.