Which factor provides the best key performance indicator (KPI) of an organization's disaster recovery readiness?

The results of tests and drills serve as the most effective key performance indicator (KPI) of an organization's disaster recovery readiness because they provide tangible evidence of how well the disaster recovery plan (DRP) functions in practice. While an approved DRP and the existence of a hot site or an updated call tree are important components of disaster recovery, these factors do not offer a clear picture of actual preparedness.

Testing and drills critically assess the organization's processes, personnel coordination, and technology performance during simulated disaster scenarios. The outcomes reveal not only the strengths and weaknesses of the established recovery procedures but also highlight necessary areas for improvement. By analyzing the results of these exercises, organizations can gauge their ability to respond effectively to a disaster, ensuring that employees are familiar with their roles and that systems and procedures work as intended.

Regular testing also facilitates the identification of gaps in resources, communication, and training prior to an actual incident, thus enhancing overall readiness. This proactive approach ensures that the organization is not only compliant with its disaster recovery policies but also genuinely capable of executing them in the event of a crisis.