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Systems Failure - Definition

Systems failure, from whatever cause, needs to be addressed in a structured manner.

Such failures need to be managed using incident response and crisis management  guidelines.

Incident management is not confined to dealing with systems failure. It provides a framework for recovery for all kinds of unwanted events.

Causes of systems failure include:

  • Fire
  • Flood
  • Power supply problems
  • Industrial Action
  • Sabotage
  • User error

The best preventative measure against systems failure is called Business Continuity Management. But for an entry-level guide to reducing the impact of systems failure, see Good Housekeeping  and Systems Failure Prevention. 

If you are concerned about your own risk from systems failure, check the Systems Failure Risk  page.

If you have suffered from systems failure, check the Systems Failure Recovery  page.