Data governance has become critical for organizations seeking to protect customer data, comply with regulations, and process data securely. As the need for increased privacy protections intensifies in response to recent legislative changes, now is the perfect time to review your organization’s data governance setup. Here are some of the areas Profisee recommends you should consider when conducting a data governance review:
1. Data Inventory
Keeping track of your organization’s data location and how it is used should be the first step in any review. Review and document your organization’s existing data sources, collection processes, and storage locations. Inventory reviews will help you better understand your data holdings’ scope and identify potential security vulnerabilities.
Some of the best practices to keep in mind when reviewing data inventory include ensuring accurate and timely data capture, performing audits on structured and unstructured data, and establishing a tracking system to monitor the use of data.
2. Data Security
Data security is a critical component of data governance and should be taken seriously. A solid security strategy will help protect customer data and ensure compliance with relevant regulations. Evaluate your existing security measures and technologies, identify any gaps in data protection, and develop a plan to address them.
To create an effective security program, you should consider access controls, encryption, incident response plans, user authentication protocols, segmentation of data storage systems, regular security assessments, and user awareness training. Also, consider if any additional security protocols are needed, such as firewalls or virus scanners.
3. Data Accessibility
Data accessibility is the ability of authorized personnel to access data quickly and securely. Review your organization’s existing policies and procedures for granting access to data, including who has access and their authorization level. Make sure you have appropriate controls to manage who can access which information and for what purpose.
It’s also important to consider how your organization keeps track of user access requests and approves or denies them. Establishing automated systems for handling these requests can help ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data.
4. Data Quality
Data quality is essential for making informed decisions, optimizing operations, and ensuring compliance. To ensure data accuracy, review your organization’s processes for validating, cleaning, and updating data. Accuracy review could include automating manual processes or implementing automated rules for data entry. In addition, ensure that the data collected meets organizational requirements, is accurate and up-to-date, and can be trusted.
By conducting a comprehensive review of your data governance setup, you can rest assured that your organization is better equipped to protect its data and remain compliant with relevant regulations. Reviewing your data governance setup periodically is essential, so now is the perfect time to do so.
5. Data Accountability
Finally, establishing a system of accountability is essential to ensure data is being used properly. Establish clear policies and procedures for data use and disclosure, and ensure that all authorized personnel are aware of their responsibilities.
Ensure that there is a straightforward procedure for documenting data access requests and investigating any unauthorized access or use of data. In addition, ensure that you have the appropriate systems to monitor data use and analyze any potential misuse. It can include regular audits, access logs, and tracking systems.
6. Technology
Organizations must use the right technology to manage and secure data to ensure successful data governance. Review your organization’s cloud storage, encryption software, identity, and access management tools, data analysis tools, and AI-based technologies. Evaluate your current systems and identify any necessary updates or new tools that need to be implemented to meet your organization’s needs.
By assessing your data governance setup and implementing the necessary tools and technologies, you can ensure that your organization is well-equipped to protect customer data and remain compliant with relevant regulations.
Final Thoughts
Profisee understands that data governance is essential for any organization that handles customer data. It helps protect the data from misuse or unauthorized access and ensures compliance with relevant regulations. By following these tips, you can ensure your organization’s data is adequately protected.
