Backup Coverage Map

D02 - Key Person Redundancy

Definition

A structured document identifying every critical operational function with only one capable executor, naming a designated backup for each, and recording the cross-training and quarterly testing status for each function.

A backup who has been briefed but never executed the function alone is not a backup. It's a plan that hasn't been tested. A backup coverage map turns a named intention into a documented, tested, and maintained operational safeguard.

Indicators

• You can name a backup for a critical function, but they've never actually run it independently.
• A key team member taking two weeks off would require active coverage from you or a senior leader.
• No quarterly test exists for any critical function's backup coverage.

Quick Win

• Name the one person whose two-week absence would cause the most damage to your operation.
• Name their backup.
• If you cannot name a backup, or the backup has never run the function alone, you have your answer.

Assess

• Take the HQ Score Assessment

Apply

• The Key Person Backup Coverage Map

Related

• Key Person Risk
• Single Point of Failure
• Redundancy Coverage