Presenter: Andy Smith

Room: Redwood Auditorium, EMU 214, Level 2

Presentation: Thinking About Starting an ITDR Program? Here’s What I Wish I Knew.

Time: 02:30p – 03:00p

Starting an Information Technology Disaster Recovery (ITDR) program can feel overwhelming—especially for smaller agencies with limited resources. In this candid and experience-driven session, Andy Smith, ITDR Program Manager at the University of Oregon, shares the lessons he learned the hard way while building a resilient ITDR program from the ground up.

Attendees will explore why resiliency is a journey, not a destination, and why the right person—with strong soft skills, organization, and technical know-how—is key to success. Andy will discuss the challenges of mapping complex systems, the importance of layering your program like a well-built house, and why promoting the “why” behind ITDR is just as important as the technical details.

This session will also highlight the critical distinction between ITDR and BCP (Business Continuity Planning)—and how the two are forever intertwined. From task management to communication strategies, Andy offers practical advice, including what he would do differently: engage others early to help build the foundation.

Whether you’re just starting or refining your ITDR efforts, this session will leave you with actionable insights, a few laughs, and a reminder that 85% of the work happens before the disaster ever strikes—even if the math doesn’t quite add up.