Embracing Contingency Planning for University Information Resources

Abstract

Aims: This paper discusses the concept of contingency planning for information systems in a university context, uncovers the critical information systems within a university that are most vulnerable, identifies contingency planning models, and establishes a systematic approach that would be followed when implementing a contingency plan program in a university environment. Study Design: Adapted conceptual model. Place and Duration of Study: The University of Nairobi between April and July 2012. Methodology: The adapted model was applied to the University of Nairobi, ICT Centre. The study used primary data that was collected through self-administered questionnaires; one set was administered to the end users spanning across seven departments and another set was distributed to ICT staff. Results: This study identified the critical university information systems, identified the minimal IT resources that support the critical information systems, established a systematic approach that should be followed when implementing a contingency plan program in university environments, and developed a model contingency plan. Conclusion: The findings of this research would be of major importance to university policy makers and stakeholders who would be able to make sound decisions and policies regarding the protection of informatics assets from an informed point of view.