This case study highlights how Cyber Risk Analysis Group, specializing in IT Services, Cybersecurity, and Business Continuity, helped clients navigate the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene with minimal disruption. Under CEO Brad Hamlett’s guidance, the company demonstrated a proactive approach, minimizing downtime and showcasing expertise in disaster preparedness and response.”
BackgroundHurricane Helene was projected to impact multiple states in the Southeast, including Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Despite initial forecasts predicting only mild winds for their Greenville headquarters, Hamlett’s team took a cautious stance, focusing on preparing client sites across Florida, where the impact was expected to be greatest, while staying prepared for broader impacts.
Initial PreparationsThe team remained on alert, anticipating potential outcomes. In the days before the storm, they coordinated with clients and pre-positioned 5G routers at Florida sites expected to experience the brunt of the storm. By Thursday, as Helene approached, Cyber Risk Analysis Group transitioned to remote work to safeguard operations against potential power or network disruptions.
When Disaster Hit: Hurricane Helene’s ImpactOn Friday, Hurricane Helene brought more damage than anticipated, resulting in widespread outages in Greenville. Despite their office losing power, Cyber Risk Analysis Group’s preparation paid off. Remote resources positioned outside the storm zone ensured uninterrupted ticket support. Hamlett managed operations from home using backup power and internet, enabling the team to maintain service continuity.
Mobilizing for Response and Recovery Over the weekend, the team actively contacted affected client sites to assess conditions and support needs. They deployed additional 5G routers where necessary. By Monday afternoon, less than 12 business hours after the storm hit, services were restored at all impacted client sites. Hamlett emphasized the team’s critical role in achieving a swift recovery.
Lessons Learned: Reflecting on the event, Hamlett underscored the importance of strategic preparation and resource identification for business continuity. Key takeaways included:
Proactive Client Communication: Early engagement with clients ensured transparency and readiness.
Strategic Use of Backup Resources: Pre-positioning 5G routers and having remote team members facilitated a rapid response.
Reliable Backup Systems: Backup power and internet allowed the team to operate steadily during outages.
Hamlett emphasized, “You must have a plan, and you need your priorities well defined to execute against that plan. Our customers trust us to keep them up and running. That’s the job. That’s our commitment, and that’s what we did.”
Insights on Business ContinuityHamlett advocates for businesses to identify critical resources and develop plans to keep them operational during disruptions. He noted that affordable backup solutions, such as 5G routers, can be vital in emergencies. Proactive continuity planning is key to minimizing downtime and maintaining client confidence.
Conclusion
Cyber Risk Analysis Group’s response to Hurricane Helene underscores the value of effective disaster management. By prioritizing client needs, ensuring clear communication, and being fully prepared, Hamlett and his team successfully supported clients and reinforced trust in their services. This case study illustrates that in IT and business continuity, robust planning and readiness can make all the difference during unforeseen events.