Crises come in all different shapes and sizes - from an action by an employee that damages your brand to a natural disaster threatening your ability to stay in business.

There are numerous steps needed to prepare for a crisis, no matter the magnitude. One critical element to becoming disaster ready is creating a comprehensive crisis communications plan.

Today we’re sharing insight from guest blogger Kinetic IT, an Information Technology Managed Service Provider based in South Bend, IN. We hope you enjoy Kinetic’s insight and wisdom!

Data safety is a critical component of any successful organization. Whether you’re dealing with client information, proprietary technologies, or internal communications, it’s vital you take the necessary steps to ensure your data is as secure as possible. When working to protect data, an organization must look at every possible avenue for a breach including internal security lapses, social engineering, lax safety standards, and more.

Pollution liability should not be overlooked. Claims, and the costs associated with those claims, can be expensive. They can test the financial stability of even the best of companies.

Crawl spaces, sewers, boilers, manholes. Individuals working in confined spaces such as these are exposed to life-threatening physical and atmospheric hazards.

What comes to mind when you think DISASTER? A power outage, a building fire, a tornado that levels your facility, or even a hurricane knocking out the entire region?

Large or small, when disaster strikes, the only way you will be ready is to have the right plan, a quality response, and a comprehensive approach. This will ensure your ability to stay in business. As you prepare, don’t limit your thinking when defining disasters.

Today we’re sharing insight from guest blogger Brandon Nettrouer, a 2015 Gibson Summer Associate. We hope you enjoy Brandon’s perspective and wisdom!

Materials for a construction project are crucial. Without them, the project will not get done. How can you protect these supplies and avoid substantial financial losses?

There are multiple options for contractors, but the right solution will depend on the project and your role. Most often contractors will turn to builder’s risk policies and installation floaters.

Even in a seemingly safe environment such as an office, accidents can – and do – occur. When you think of accidents, your mind might jump to major incidents and emergencies. But don’t overlook the smaller injuries. Cuts, scrapes, and burns can also impact your workforce and their productivity. Having CPR and first aid trained employees can make a substantial difference in your ability to maintain a safe work environment.

As hard as you may try, you are not going to please everyone. There are going to be times on social media where your organization receives negative feedback. Some businesses let the fear of negative reviews prevent them from diving into the world of social media. Yes, social media does present its own risks, but it could also be argued that skipping on social media creates even greater risks.

The dark clouds roll in. The warning siren sounds. Severe weather is coming…are you and your employees ready?

The storm may pass your site, causing little to no damage. But if you are caught in the heart of the tornado, the result could be catastrophic. You’ve seen the images. Entire towns wiped out in the path of a tornado. You can’t predict the outcome of a storm, but you can plan ahead to make sure your organization is disaster ready.