In today’s data-driven world, where information flows seamlessly across borders and industries, constructing a global data protection program that harmonizes local approaches can be an intricate task. I’m Cristina Costache, Noventiq ‘s Data Protection Officer (DPO), and in this thought leadership article, I’ll share insights on the challenges and strategies for creating an effective global data protection program.
The Complexity of Data Protection
Let’s begin by acknowledging the pervasive complexity surrounding data protection. It’s a challenge we understand all too well at Noventiq, being a leading global provider of digital transformation and cybersecurity services. Navigating a complex landscape of data protection laws and regulations is imperative for us. Therefore, we continuously seek to implement innovative projects that enable the effective management and safeguarding of personal information across all regions. One such transformative project that has emerged at the forefront of our efforts is global data mapping.
The Global Data Mapping Project
Our journey into global data mapping represents a comprehensive approach that combines the involvement of business owners with the utilization of cutting-edge data discovery tools. This project serves as a testament to our commitment to safeguarding personal information and enhancing our data protection practices.
The Key Pillars of Data Mapping
During the initial phase of our data mapping endeavor, we engaged with business owners across our organization, spanning over 60 jurisdictions. This collaborative effort was essential in gathering valuable insights about the data life cycle. The key pillars of this phase included:
- Identification of Top-Down Business Processes: We adhered to the Process Classification Framework developed by APQC, allowing us to uniformly describe and map business processes across our global organization.
- Identification of Business Owners: We meticulously identified business owners and their correlative business processes in each country. This meticulous process ensured accountability and clear ownership of personal data within our global organization.
- Streamlining Data Collection: To ensure consistency and accuracy in information gathering, we elaborated on detailed instructions that streamlined the data collection process.
- Knowledge Sharing Workshops: Interactive sessions were organized for Business Owners to foster knowledge sharing. These workshops greatly enhanced understanding and engagement with the data mapping project.
- Data Life Cycle Information Gathering: A crucial aspect was the comprehensive gathering of information related to the data life cycle.
- Risk Assessment and Remedial Actions: Concurrently, we conducted a rigorous risk assessment and developed remedial actions to address any vulnerabilities.
Leveraging Technology
In addition to the human element, we harnessed the power of discovery tools to facilitate the data mapping exercise. These tools help us to conduct automated scans and analyses of various data repositories, networks, and systems. They played a vital role in identifying data sources, data types, and potential data flows. By combining these technological advancements with information gathered through interviews, we ensured a thorough and accurate data mapping process.
Achieving Holistic Privacy Management
The global data mapping project addressed a long-standing issue in privacy management—the lack of comprehensive knowledge about an organization’s personal data landscape. Through the mapping of data flows, identification of risks, and establishment of remedial actions, this initiative significantly bolstered our ability to effectively address privacy challenges.
Strengthening Data Security
The mapping process brought potential vulnerabilities in data management to light. Armed with this knowledge, we fortified our security measures, thus protecting personal information from unauthorized access or breaches.
Beyond Privacy Management
While the primary focus of global data mapping projects was privacy management, the benefits reached far beyond this domain. Effective data mapping greatly enhanced our overall data governance practices. It improved data quality, accuracy, and accessibility, leading to positive impacts in areas such as data analytics, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance. Furthermore, the transparency achieved through data mapping fostered trust among stakeholders, including customers, regulators, and business partners. This, in turn, has contributed to the enhanced reputation and credibility of our organization.
Thinking Differently and Adapting to Change
Constructing a global data protection program that accommodates local approaches is a multifaceted endeavor. It requires a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved, clear communication between technical and privacy experts, and an agile approach to adapt to the ever-changing data protection landscape. Our global data mapping initiative serves as a prime example of how innovative projects can transform data protection practices and secure personal information effectively.
