I am researching the impact of SARS on the global economy and
businesses. One area I am interested in finding more information on
is a worst case scenario where a SARS like virus, or series of virus
(whether natural or terrorist initiated) infects our most developed
nations, bringing the large economic centers/cities of the world to a
halt.
The SARS experience has taught us there is a need for organizations to
develop a health-related emergencies policy. Businesses need to be
aware of and plan for potential health-related emergencies. Some
implications for business include:
- loss of reliable supply chain and customer base,
- potential quarantine (product, facility, employee),
- business disruptions,
- potential for long-term effects on reputation, and
- inability to perform contractual and service obligations.
In all cases, an organization’s ability to respond in a timely and
effective manner is dependent upon having substantive business
continuity plans in place. This includes emergency response, crisis
management, and business recovery. Before a business can put these
plans in place, it must understand the potential implications of such
a worst case scenario.
So, Here are some aspects of this scenario that I am interested in.
What would be the impact on the global and regional economies of such
a worst case scenario? Would borders close to all travel, imports and
exports? How could a global business survive without access to air
travel? What can businesses do to prepare for such a worst case
scenario? How would technology be used to soften the blow of such a
worst case scenario?
I am looking for any content that discusses such a worst case scenario
from the perspective of the implications to businesses and the global
economy. I am not so much interested in the political
ramifications...except to the extent that they might impact business. |
