Without the “pass” or “fail” nature of a full crisis simulation, or the expense, a desktop exercise offers low-pressure testing to preview and explore plans, roles and responses. A desktop exercise lasts between 3 to 4 hours and involves some degree of challenge, but focuses on providing the opportunity to examine your crisis arrangements under limited pressure. Conducted within a “virtual world” which can feature a Scenario Cell feeding in exercise information, this type of exercise brings together several departments, teams or disciplines. By prompting interaction between teams, desktop exercises explore and confirm the team’s roles and responsibilities, and reveal gaps in plans.
