But my point is that for some types of systems there is no possibility of a manual backup... the volumes are simply too large & complex.
David,
You're quite correct, IMO. I wasn't trying to imply that retail companies would be able to easily migrate to manual backup systems.
What I was referring to were critical infrastructure operations like power, refining, transportation, and water, wherein automated processes and monitoring equipment were installed to replace the human employees who had previously performed those tasks.
For electronic retailers it would be a matter of going back to manual checks, cash, or actually physically calling the credit card verification agent to approve the transaction.
Again, I'm referring to critical infrastructure issues. Retailers wouldn't be selling anything anyway if there is no power.. etc.
But there is a chance that the economy will suffer recessionary effects from slowing business "velocity" and shrinking consumer confidence as spenders become savers and hunker down. However, that scenario is far from the "kendemonium" scenario our particular "chicken little" is purporting will fall upon us.
I just am not convinced that there exists convincing evidence that there will be a total blackout of power or critical infrastructure here in the US. And I think people are overlooking all the ways that humans can intervene in the automated process/monitoring operation in order to maintain critical systems functionality.
However, your point is well-taken.
Regards,
Ron
|
