Several disastrous circumstances – and one potentially so – that are now underway make one think about perfect storms:

- The collapse of the sub-prime mortgage market
- An accident on top of an accident in the mine in Utah, resulting in deaths and injuries for rescuers of miners already trapped
- Who knows how the space shuttle return will go with yet another flying foam incident

How many of these circumstances could have been foreseen, and prevented? Perhaps none. Maybe all. It gives one pause for thought, though.

1. What would the perfect storm be for your business or industry?

2. If it happened – and it could – would you be ready? How would you respond? And does everyone who needs to know the plan of action, know? Are you sure?

3. If your answer to readiness preparation is “Honestly, no, we’re not ready,” what do you need to think about and prepare for (yes – even though, and especially because – you do not want to)?

Some scenario analysis, and risk management planning might be in order for you, too.

4. Who can you engage or enroll in the process of helping you work through the possibilities, signals, plans and contingencies you need to have on the shelf, ready to go, if the perfect storm hits your business, your industry, your world?

And yes, I’m taking my own advice, as well. Scenario planning and checking or improving emergency preparedness is on my short-term to-do list, too.