Darwin Awards for Disaster Recovery

Gary Audin, Delphi, Inc.

Published June 2009, Posted June 2009

Abstract:

“The Darwin Awards salute the improvement of the human genome by honoring those who accidentally remove themselves from it...”

No matter how smart the technologist, there are always glitches and gotchas when planning for a disaster. The problems I have seen and stories I have collected always demonstrate that the best laid plans are not necessarily the best plans.

The problems stems from assumptions made in the planning process or the exclusion of non-technical personnel from the planning process. I have encountered remarks from the non-technical person that when considered, are insightful and right on the mark.

The following 16 situations have been collected from clients, seminar and conference attendees, and friends. They may seem funny, even ridiculous. Remember they are real occurrences, not from a joke writer. I hope these will stimulate you to brainstorm your planning process with a wide number of personnel and consider what appear to be off the wall or outrageous thoughts.