How often should a Crisis Communication Plan be updated?

Regular Annual Review

A Crisis Communication Plan should be reviewed and updated at least once a year. This ensures that contact lists, communication protocols, and messaging templates remain accurate and relevant to the organization’s current operations.

After Major Organizational Changes

Any time there are significant internal changes—such as leadership transitions, mergers, restructuring, or policy updates—the plan should be revised. These changes may affect roles, responsibilities, or approved communication channels, which must be reflected in the plan.

When New Risks Are Identified

As industries evolve, new risks such as cybersecurity threats, supply chain disruptions, or regulatory changes may emerge. Updating the crisis communication plan ensures it addresses current vulnerabilities and prepares the organization for newer types of emergencies.

Following a Crisis Event

After a crisis has occurred, conduct a post-crisis review to evaluate the communication process. Identify what worked well and what didn’t, and update the plan accordingly. This continuous improvement helps the organization perform better in future crisis scenarios.