Which statement correctly identifies the first step in developing a business continuity plan?

Which statement correctly identifies the first step in developing a business continuity plan?

• A. Developing an organizational strategy.
• B. Determining key objectives.
• C. Distinguishing between critical and noncritical processes.
• D. Identifying potential exposures.

Answer: (B)

Setting clear objectives is the starting point because it defines what continuity means for the organization and what needs to be achieved if a disruption occurs. When objectives specify what services must be restored and within which timeframes, they establish measurable targets that guide every later step—risk assessment, impact analysis, and the selection of recovery strategies. Knowing the objectives helps determine acceptable downtime, required resources, and the scope of the plan, so all subsequent activities align with those goals. Exposures are identified as part of risk assessment, and the process of separating critical from noncritical processes is performed during the impact analysis to prioritize recovery efforts after objectives are defined. Organizational strategy and structure come after objectives are set, using that foundation to decide how to implement the plan.

Setting clear objectives is the starting point because it defines what continuity means for the organization and what needs to be achieved if a disruption occurs. When objectives specify what services must be restored and within which timeframes, they establish measurable targets that guide every later step—risk assessment, impact analysis, and the selection of recovery strategies. Knowing the objectives helps determine acceptable downtime, required resources, and the scope of the plan, so all subsequent activities align with those goals. Exposures are identified as part of risk assessment, and the process of separating critical from noncritical processes is performed during the impact analysis to prioritize recovery efforts after objectives are defined. Organizational strategy and structure come after objectives are set, using that foundation to decide how to implement the plan.