Contingency Planning · The fallback plan · Component

The lead time

How long the alternative takes to start — which is what sets the last moment the decision can be taken.

The deliverable

What it is

A fallback needing six weeks to start is useless with four weeks left. The lead time is what makes the decision point real.

It should be established by asking rather than assumed, and it is usually longer than expected.

One level in

What it is made of

Each element is a constituent part of the component. Follow one to see the attributes it carries.

  1. The preparation

    What has to happen before the fallback can start.

    3 attributes: Step · Takes · Owner

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  2. The total

    How long from decision to running.

    3 attributes: Lead time · Source · Confidence

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  3. The shortening

    What could be done in advance to reduce it.

    3 attributes: Preparation · Time saved · Cost

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A fallback needing six weeks with four weeks left is not a fallback. Establish the lead time by asking.