What task should be performed first when preparing a disaster recovery plan?

Performing a business impact analysis (BIA) is the foundational step in preparing a disaster recovery plan. The BIA identifies critical business functions and the effects of disruptions on those functions, helping prioritize recovery efforts based on their significance to the organization's operations. By understanding the potential impact of different types of disasters on various business areas, stakeholders can better allocate resources and develop tailored recovery strategies that effectively minimize risks and financial losses.

This step provides essential insights into which applications, systems, and processes are vital for continued business operations, influencing the subsequent steps in the disaster recovery planning process, such as developing a recovery strategy and appointing recovery teams. A thorough BIA ensures that the recovery plan aligns with business priorities, thereby enhancing the organization's resilience in the face of disruptions.