Scenario 1: Data Security Breach Situation: Customer data exposure affecting 50,000 users Time: Monday, 8:00 AM Hour 1 Response: "We've identified unauthorized access to our customer database. Immediate actions: - Systems secured and breach contained - External cybersecurity team engaged - Customer data being assessed

Global Supply Chain Disruption Setting: Multinational Company Impact: 40% of deliveries affected Time Frame: 72-hour critical period Hour-by-Hour Response Plan: Hour 1-2: - Initial assessment meeting - Stakeholder mapping - Communication draft - Team mobilization Hour 3-6: - Customer impact analysis - Alternative supplier activation - Media statement preparation -

Part 1: Crisis Story Planning Worksheet Crisis Story Planning Template ----------------------------- Incident Name: _________________ Date/Time: ____________________ Impact Level (1-5): ____________ 1. Initial Assessment □ What happened: ___________ □ Who's affected: __________ □ Immediate impact: ________ □ Current status: __________ 2. Stakeholder Mapping Primary: __________________ Secondary: ________________ Internal: _________________ External: _________________

Introduction When I led communications during a major service outage at one of my previous organizations, we learned that how you tell the story of a crisis matters as much as the technical solution. A well-crafted crisis narrative can turn challenges into opportunities, build trust, and strengthen relationships. Types of