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Virtual technologies 'can enhance business continuity planning'

27 May 2011

One way to reduce the disruption caused by incidents such as the volcano eruption in Iceland is to adopt virtual technologies, an expert has suggested.

Alistair McKinnon, Senior Product Manager of IP (Internet Protocol) at Virgin Media Business, explained that remote working offers organizations the opportunity to continue operating when crises occur.

He noted events such as the Grimsvotn volcano in the south-east of Iceland mean that productivity and deadlines may be affected, adding: "This can often be avoided by embracing remote collaboration tools."

Mr McKinnon pointed out such solutions "allow workers to meet up virtually", stressing that "businesses need to put contingency plans in place to deal with unforeseen events".

He highlighted the potential for continuity plans of technologies such as teleconferencing, desk sharing and videoconferencing, pointing out the incident in Iceland is a further reminder of a need to put measures in place that minimize disruption when such events occur.

The volcano started to erupt on Saturday (May 21st), emitting plumes of ash and causing flight cancellations across Europe during the past week.