The Alternative Worlds system

How does Alternative Worlds work?

"Alternative Worlds" is a system for writing emergency response, crisis management, or business continuity exercises. Its output is usually an "exercise handbook" on paper, to fit in with the systems clients are already using.

It works by intelligently assembling 'building blocks', such as pre-set locations, stakeholders, scenarios, etc., into an intelligent pattern, and producing the results in whatever format is preferred.

We provide not just software but also a service to keep the data on the system up to date, and to help clients use the software.

By storing experience and data the system makes it easy for inexperienced exercise writers to produce exercises in a matter of minutes.

The system also enhances the quality of exercises, partly by building in simulation technology to make injects more realistic. Exercises are often 'high-profile events, so it is essential to get them right.

Alternative Worlds is practical:

• It is already working for a UK business unit of a major multinational oil company. This has enabled us to test it in the field under a range of conditions.
• The system won a Technology Strategy Board grant in 2009, enabling us to work with Birkbeck College, University of London, to improve it, and to adapt it for use in the Critical Information Infrastructure sector.
• Two members of the 'Alternative Worlds' team took part in the panel which recently wrote the new BSI guidance note PD 25666 on exercises.

So we offer a tried and tested product, backed by academic research, and conforming to the latest guidances and industry practice.