Can IT learn from BP disaster in the Gulf?

As we build more complex systems like the Deep Water Horizon Rig, the potential for things to go catastrophically wrong increases – dramatically. As industries and products mature they do become more stable, examples are cars and atomic power. But oil exploration and information technology are, every day, pushing into new territory. These sectors have not had time to learn the lessons that more mature industries understand. We must remain cognizant of the risk these cutting edge environments carry.

Understanding the risk is not enough. Only through thorough preparedness can businesses and industries deliver proper value. Not to diminish the loss of life, jobs and the environmental damage, but as we read about pension funds, suspended dividends and the pain suffered by BP shareholders, let us in the information technology sector take that as a lesson.

It may seem self interested, since we’re in the business of protecting systems, but we’re on the front lines, and this much we know: Far too many companies take too much risk with their essential systems. Let’s let the BP disaster serve some good. Let’s all reevaluate our systems risks. Let’s give our stakeholders the protection they all deserve.