What is a key goal of a functional test in business continuity planning?

In business continuity planning, the key goal of a functional test is to mobilize personnel and resources effectively. This type of test evaluates how well an organization can activate its business continuity plans in a real-world scenario. It checks if the right personnel are in place, whether they understand their roles, and if the necessary resources (personnel, technology, facilities, etc.) can be mobilized swiftly in the event of a disruption.

Through this testing, organizations can identify gaps in their planning and execution processes, ensuring that all involved parties are ready to respond appropriately. By confirming that personnel can be activated and resources can be gathered as expected, organizations can enhance their ability to maintain operations during interruptions. This proactive approach helps ensure that the business continuity plan is not only theoretical but can be implemented effectively when needed.