What is the difference between a Playbook and a Runbook?
The concepts are very similar but are generally used in different contexts.
A Runbook usually refers to computer systems or networks. A Playbook has more of a general business focus.
Feedback from BCP Builder Community on LinkedIn:
Blue Print Plans
We used to call them Blue Print Plans, probably a phrase we created. We had a series of blue prints for different scenarios. This enabled our Duty Operations Manager to flex our response, by integrating several blue prints. These plans would likely include the details of what you now call Playbooks.
IT architecture plans would also be used, which you call the Runbook.
We also had Operational Response Plans. These were more technical and mechanical infrastructure based, which were supported by “STOPS” our standard operating procedures.
Trends and terminology change, but the theory stands firm, preparedness.
Incident Response Procedures
In the BCP Builder Template, I refer to these as Incident Response Procedures. These procedures should provide prioritized actions to be taken for a business continuity event affecting any or all of the company’s products or services.
Procedures must be concise so they can be followed step by step under stressful circumstances. This section of the plan is where you record how you would like your staff to respond to an incident. Following these procedures will prevent staff from making costly mistakes under pressure.
Uses
I’ve built a few Playbooks for my organization. In our case, the Playbook is used by a Department to quickly assess business impact for Senior Management. The Playbook also provides information on who to contact and identifies customer impact as well as contingent procedures, if available. These documents do not replace the Business Continuity Plan, but enhance the resilience of the organization that use them.
If you want to increase your Organizational Resilience, start with preparing a Business Continuity Plan and check out BCP Builder’s Business Continuity Planning Templates.
