Readiness work is proactive preparation that helps an organization respond effectively to future security incidents. It can include tabletop exercises, incident-response plans, documenting systems and escalation paths, and clarifying who may approve or carry out actions.
In cyber security, this preparation can reduce confusion and delays when an incident occurs. Organizations may perform readiness work internally or arrange it with an incident response provider, sometimes using unused retainer hours if the contract allows. Define the permitted activities, deliverables, and approval process in advance so the work strengthens real response capability rather than remaining an undefined contractual benefit.