A crisis, by definition, is never “good.” However, in Financial Services, we often prefer crises where we can retain a significant degree of control. We say “significant” because crises, by their very nature, inherently involve elements of unpredictability and require a degree of flexibility in our responses.
While no two crises are identical, there are recurring patterns and characteristics that provide valuable insights. These similarities, both in the nature of the crises themselves and in the ways we respond to them, merit discussion. This whitepaper aims to first outline the principal characteristics of a crisis and then examine typical responses. We will explore how these responses might be refined to address crises in a more structured and effective manner.
Crises demand quick decisions, which require smart people across teams to operate on information they trust. This information is often a blend of raw data and analytics, both of which must be accurate, timely, and actionable. The role of analytics, in particular, is crucial. It transforms disparate data points into insights, enabling decision-makers to navigate uncertainty with greater confidence and agility. Without reliable analytics, the margin for error increases significantly , amplifying the potential impact of the crisis.
To fully understand how crises – and the corresponding responses – have evolved, we must first identify the key characteristics that define them. These characteristics serve as the foundation for our analysis.
It is important to note that a “crisis event” is not always easily quantifiable. What constitutes a crisis in one area may be viewed as an opportunity elsewhere. From a complexity perspective, crises do not always result in zero-sum outcomes. This nuanced nature requires careful consideration, beginning with a clear analysis.
A crisis is commonly defined as “a time of great danger, difficulty, or doubt when problems must be solved, or important decisions must be made.” In this whitepaper, we will unpack this definition from a Financial Services perspective, delving into its core elements to better understand the challenges and opportunities inherent in managing crises.
Contents:
- Time – speed, duration & time-frame
- Threat – shareholders, customers & wider eco-system
- Decision-making process
- Trusted analytics
- How will AI change the preparation of crisis?
- Where are the regulators on all of this?
