Homeland Defense Journal Training Conference ®
The Future of Continuity of Operations (COOP) and Telework
Conference
August 6-7 2008 – Washington, DC
The Future of Continuity of Operations and Telework Training Conference is about best practices,
lesson-learned and current thinking in the development of agency mission continuity plans. As a baseline of
preparedness for the full range of potential emergencies, all government agencies, including federal, state,
local, and counties shall have in place a viable COOP capability which ensures the performance of their
essential functions during any emergency or situation that may disrupt normal operations. The changing
threat environment and recent emergencies, including localized acts of nature, accidents, technological
emergencies, and military or terrorist attack-related incidents, have shifted awareness to the need for COOP
capabilities that enable agencies to continue their essential functions across a broad spectrum of
emergencies. Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends that all COOP planning goals include
an all-hazards approach, identification of alternate facilities, and the ability to operate within 12 hours of
activation, and maintain emergency operations for up to 30 days.
COOP planning is an effort to assure that the capability exists to continue essential agency functions across
a wide range of potential emergencies. The objectives of a COOP plan may include:
• Ensuring the continuous performance of an agency’s essential functions/operations during an emergency
• Protecting essential or backup capabilities of facilities, equipment, records, and other assets
• Reducing loss of life, minimizing damage and losses
• Achieving a timely and orderly recovery for an emergency and resumption of full services to customers
• Telework
Telework is an essential element of federal agencies' COOP Planning. In the aftermath of the events of
September 11, 2001, it has become increasingly evident that Federal agencies need to c