When organizations need to test their ability to perform with precision in a rapid-response mode, a table-top exercise can provide a challenging-yet safe-environment to practice skills and refine working processes. In these exercises, the learner becomes a functional component of an evolving situation-providing an experience to learn and sharpen role-based, problem-solving skills in data management, crisis management, diagnostic, and social process situations.

Working with a national emergency disaster response organization, Vangent conducted an assessment to evaluate the critical issues the organization faces in a disaster. Additionally, we designed a step-by-step methodology to address specific disaster scenarios involving weapons of mass destruction.

The table-top exercise included role-plays, real-world scenarios, practice sessions demonstrating knowledge of policies and procedures, and an interactive component, which was designed to capture a participant's suggestions and responses to similar experiences. Given that the drill participants would likely be enacting the experience in a non-business setting, PPS developed a drill facilitator's guide that contained the important skills and objectives to be communicated to the participants, as well as instructions to facilitate delivery of the exercise. We then provided train-the-trainer seminars, which coached the facilitators to assess the scenario using a prepared observation checklist.

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