Business Continuity Management: A Test of Continuity between Economic Sectors

Abstract

This paper builds upon previous research undertaken to identify the nature of business continuity practices within the UK finance sector. Its broad purpose is to examine the applicability of a framework of best practice developed within this one sector to other sectors. Retail and local government were chosen as two widely differing economic sectors. The paper adopts a case study approach and examines J Sainsbury, a leading UK retailer, and Coventry City Council, a large local authority. Previous quantitative studies, whilst benefiting from large sample sizes, yield only superficial insights into the nature of business continuity practice. The findings of this study provide support for the view that generic factors can be identified across economic sectors through in-depth qualitative research.