150 word response to this discussion post. Continuity planning is the effort to

150 word response to this discussion post. Continuity planning is the effort to ensure continuity of operations needed to perform essential functions under any condition to preserve capabilities and government functions at all levels. The ability to sustain essential functions in the face of an incident or disaster preserves lives, protects property and critical infrastructure, demonstrates resilience, and builds confidence. The primary benefits of continuity planning related to homeland security is that it helps to meet the five mission areas across the National Preparedness Goal. Additionally, planning, public information, and operational coordination are a part of the three core capabilities to the five mission areas. Therefore, the ability to secure our nation and build resilience are the direct tie between continuity planning, the National Preparedness System, and meeting the goals of homeland security (DHS, 2015).
The primary benefits and components of these planning initiatives across both public and private sectors are guidance determining emergency functions, resource needs assessments, internal and external communications, identifying key personnel, appropriate test & exercise activities, and program maintenance. Additionally, the greatest benefits are how quickly government and essential services such as sewer, water, and electricity are restored to a community. In the public sector, continuity of operations planning, or COOP involves providing funding or grants in relief to restore compliance; adding to ensure that plans are formulated and followed. In the private sector, business continuity management is when businesses of all backgrounds follow standard practices and recognized standards. Although not federally mandated, they may be federally regulated. Industries such as technology, finance, and logistics are common entities that can assist before, during, and after disaster strikes. The private sector can also help and support by providing risk analysis and alternative perspectives (HSC, 2007).
 
-Matt R.
 
References Used:
Department of Homeland Security. (2015). National preparedness goal. Washington D.C.: Government Printing Office. 
Homeland Security Council. (2007). National continuity policy implementation plan. Washington, D.C.: Government Printing Office.