What method MOST likely ensures the success of disaster recovery efforts?

The most effective method to ensure the success of disaster recovery efforts is having approved recovery procedures in place. Approved recovery procedures are crucial because they provide a well-defined framework for the recovery process, detailing the necessary steps, responsible parties, and tools required to restore operations effectively after a disaster. This structured approach helps in minimizing confusion during recovery, ensuring that all team members know their roles and responsibilities and can act swiftly and efficiently.

While completing data restoration is a vital part of the recovery process, it is only one aspect of a broader recovery plan. Without established procedures to guide the restoration of data and overall operations, there may be delays or miscommunication that could compromise the recovery effort.

Performing a tabletop test and committing appropriate staff resources are also important elements of disaster recovery planning. Tabletop exercises help teams identify potential issues in their recovery strategies and allow for practice in a low-stakes environment, while appropriate staff resources ensure that skilled personnel are available to execute recovery efforts. However, these elements are most effective when a solid, approved recovery procedure is already in place, emphasizing that having documented and approved processes is fundamental for successful disaster recovery.