When reviewing an organization's disaster recovery plan, what should an IS auditor primarily verify?

An IS auditor's primary focus when reviewing an organization's disaster recovery plan should be the regular review and update of the plan. This ensures that the disaster recovery strategy remains relevant and effective, reflecting any changes in business processes, technology, or regulatory requirements. The landscape of threats and risks can change rapidly, and an outdated plan may not adequately address current vulnerabilities or leverage new recovery technologies.

A disaster recovery plan is a living document that should evolve with the organization. Regular reviews and updates help ensure that all stakeholders are aware of their roles and responsibilities, risk assessments are current, and recovery procedures are tested against the latest operational realities. This proactive approach enhances the organization's resilience against disruptions and supports business continuity efforts.

While other aspects, such as approval by leadership or communication to department heads, are important for the governance and awareness of the plan, the fundamental requirement is that the plan itself remains aligned with the organization's needs through consistent review and updates. This alignment is critical for effective disaster recovery in real scenarios.