Key facts
Business continuity management (BCM) is a management instrument used by the Federal Administration. It is an integral part of risk management. While risk management analyses possible risks to the performance of tasks, BCM involves preparing proactive and reactive measures and plans for maintaining operations in the event of an incident. Its aim is to minimise the repercussions of disruptions that could affect essential services. Effective BCM should thus make it possible to reduce the duration of disruptions and the extent of any resulting productivity losses.
The administrative units and departments are responsible for developing, implementing and periodically checking BCM. The Federal Finance Administration (FFA) promotes uniform BCM deployment and improvements within the Confederation. It is also in charge of training and ensures the exchange of opinions between departments.
The Swiss Federal Audit Office (SFAO) audited the effectiveness of BCM for the external network of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). It found that the centralisation of BCM for the external network in Bern is contrary to the directive on federal continuity management. It also has weaknesses for the some 170 Swiss representations abroad that are exposed to business continuity risks in the field. Improvements are thus needed to ensure effective BCM.