Incidentchef

Incidentchef is a conceptual framework for coordinating incident response across multiple teams during critical events. The term signals centralized command, explicit role definitions, fast decision-making, and structured post-incident learning.

Origin and usage: The label appears in discussions of incident management and resilience engineering as a practical metaphor to organize response workflows. It is not a formal standard, but is used in training materials and, in some cases, to describe software platforms that implement incident response playbooks.

Core elements: An incident commander leads the response, with cross-functional leads for communications, technical remediation, and stakeholder relations. Playbooks provide steps for detection, triage, containment, eradication, recovery, and post-incident review. Dashboards track status, timelines, and evidence.

Benefits and challenges: Proponents cite clearer command, faster escalation, and improved documentation. Critics warn that the metaphor can obscure governance details and that success depends on training, clear authority lines, and disciplined practice to avoid role confusion.

Applications and scope: The concept appears in information technology operations, cybersecurity incident response, and emergency management training. It is commonly used in tabletop exercises and simulations, and in some environments supported by incident management software that implements playbooks and role-based workflows.