The Black Swan Test
Coming in Q2 2026
The purpose of this book
This sixth volume in the Ensuring Resilience series is dedicated to continuity and recovery testing. Its aim is to provide organisations with a methodological framework for preparing, executing, analysing and improving their resilience exercises.
Without regular, structured testing, a plan remains theoretical and its effectiveness can never be guaranteed. This book transforms the testing process into a lever for learning and continuous improvement.
What you will discover
- The different types of tests (tabular, simulations, full-scale exercises, surprise tests) and their purpose.
- How to prepare a realistic test: objectives, scope, teams involved, crisis scenarios.
- Best practices for executing an exercise without unnecessarily disrupting business.
- How to collect and analyse evidence from each test (indicators, logs, feedback).
- Methods for transforming a test into a continuous improvement plan, with corrections and updates integrated into the BIA, BCP, DRP and CRP.
What you will learn
Through this book, you will learn how to:
- Design a progressive and structured testing programme.
- Define measurable performance indicators for your resilience exercises.
- Involve your business and IT teams in a collective training dynamic.
- Leverage feedback to strengthen your plans and develop a culture of antifragility.
What you will be able to do after reading
At the end of this sixth volume, you will be able to:
- Prepare and organise continuity and recovery tests tailored to your organisation.
- Document your exercises and draw verifiable evidence from them, which will be particularly useful for your audits and certifications.
- Identify actual gaps and weaknesses in your plans.
Implement a cycle of continuous improvement, turning each test into an opportunity for progress.