Business Change and ImplementationResource

Crisis Curve

Visualising crisis escalation and recovery.

A crisis curve shows how a crisis develops from early warning signs and escalation through peak disruption, response and recovery. It helps anticipate changing needs and decision points.

How to use this tool

  1. Define the crisis scenario

    Define the crisis scenario and planning horizon.

  2. Identify phases and warning signs

    Identify the likely phases and warning signs.

  3. Map needs by phase

    Map decisions, communications and resource needs by phase.

  4. Review as events unfold

    Review and update the response as the situation develops.

References & further reading

Fink, S. (1986). Crisis Management: Planning for the Inevitable. AMACOM.