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In crisis management, “OTO” is a commonly used acronym: Education, Training, and Drills. The goal of OTO is to equip people with the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience so that they can respond appropriately during a crisis. In practice, education, training, and drills (especially the latter two) are often confused. So let’s take a moment to consider the differences.
Objective: To impart knowledge and develop the competencies and skills required for a specific position or task.
Characteristics: Training often takes place within a formal and structured framework. It may include theory lessons, presentations, discussions, and sometimes practical simulations.
Examples: Basic Crisis Management Course, Training for Crisis Coordinators
Objective: To improve specific skills or behaviors.
Characteristics: Training is often hands-on. It may involve repeatedly performing specific tasks or procedures to develop or improve skills.
Examples: Decision-Making Workshop , Competency Training (such as Public Speaking, Facilitation, or Meeting Minutes).
Objective: To test and refine processes, systems, and collaborations in a simulated crisis situation.
Features: Drills are typically a simulated reality. They provide a safe environment for organizations to test their entire crisis response, including communication, collaboration, and decision-making.
Examples: Crisis simulation exercise, Tabletop exercise
The sequence of Education, Training, and Drills makes sense: first, you ensure that the members of the crisis management team have the necessary knowledge and skills; then they practice these skills; and finally, they conduct drills together in a realistic setting.
However, you do not have to strictly follow this order. For organizations just getting started with crisis management, “awareness” is often the crucial first step. For example, a tabletop exercise can be an effective method for raising awareness, as it gives participants insight into the many facets of crisis management. This experience provides valuable insight into where the organization stands. Once this basic awareness has been established, you can determine which elements of Education, Training, or Drills are further needed to strengthen and refine the organization’s crisis management capabilities.
