Based on defined test classes the Test Strategy describes which area and plan should be tested in which circumference within the scope of Continuity tests. The Test Strategy defines the test depth (test class), the test components and the test structure. Further a concrete schedule will be defined for the realisation of the tests. Besides, successful pass through of a low test class (e.g., base test) is a condition for the realisation of a test of a higher test class (e.g., application test). In addition to the test classes we farther make a distinction after the following test structures:

• Scenario tests (e.g. as an End-to-End test)
• Bypass and Alternate side tests
• Infrastructure tests
• Communication Exercises

General remark:
Test results, whether negative or postiv, are to be understood as a starting point for the improvement of the existing planning. Don't get impatient! Mistakes with tests are "normal" - these should not be reproached with single persons or organisation units, but are to be analyzed and to avoid in future.

Scenario Tests

With the scenario test the coordination plans are checked. Within this test the interaction of all plans (operating department, infrastructure, communication) should be checked.

Purposes

• Completeness - does all plans exist?
• Dependencies - does the interfaces between the different plans and areas work?
• Communication - problems in the communication (e.g., missing Milestones)?
• Schedule - is the deadline met?

Bypass and Alternate side tests

With the Bypass tests the manual Work-around procedures are checked. With the Alternate side tests the notification procedures and the initiation of the alternate work centre are checked.

Purposes

• Test of the manual Work-around procedures and Work-around tools
• Test of the resumption processes per scenario
• Test of the notification procedures
• Test of the initiation of the alternate work centre

Infrastructure Tests

Infrastructure tests check the infrastructure recovery plans without participation of the operating departments - thus without inclusion of the business recovery plans.

Purposes

• Test of the documented recovery procedures per scenario
• Test of the implemented precaution measures and resources

Communication Exercises

The communication Exercises reassess the achievement of the defined communication purposes, the successful operation of the communication mediums
and the expiry of the communication processes.

Purposes

• Are all addressees reached?
• Are the defined purposes clear to all involved parties?
• Do the used communication mediums function adequate?
• Does the communication process work?