Navigating GDPR Compliance: What Does Success Look Like?

Companies Struggle to Meet GDPR Requirements

With the implementation of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), companies are facing new challenges in protecting personal data and ensuring compliance with strict regulations. One of the most challenging requirements is the mandate for companies to report data breaches to supervisory authorities and individuals affected within 72 hours of detection. Additionally, performing impact assessments to identify vulnerabilities and address them is crucial in mitigating the risk of breaches.

For a comprehensive overview of GDPR requirements, visit “What are the GDPR requirements?”.

ADP’s Journey to GDPR Compliance

One company that has been heavily impacted by GDPR is ADP, a provider of cloud-based human capital management and business outsourcing services to over 650,000 companies worldwide. With millions of individuals’ personally identifiable information (PII) at stake, ADP has been working diligently to ensure GDPR compliance not only for itself but also for its clients who rely on its services.

Cecile Georges, Chief Privacy Officer for ADP, acknowledges the company’s advantage in already adhering to existing privacy and security regulations in Europe. Despite this, ADP embarked on a large and global GDPR project, involving various departments and stakeholders across the organization to ensure compliance.

Georges emphasizes the importance of documentation and accountability in GDPR compliance, stating that “The documentation piece will be key” in demonstrating how companies have become compliant. ADP also took proactive steps, such as defining Binding Corporate Rules for protecting PII, to reassure clients of their commitment to data protection.

Steps for Companies to Stay GDPR Compliant

For companies striving to maintain GDPR compliance, several key steps can guide them in the right direction:

1. Set a sense of urgency from top management to prioritize cyber preparedness and compliance.
2. Involve all stakeholders in the organization, not just IT, in GDPR compliance efforts.
3. Conduct periodic risk assessments to identify data risks and mitigate them.
4. Appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) or hire one if necessary to oversee PII protection.
5. Create and maintain a data protection plan aligned with GDPR requirements.
6. Address mobile device risks and ensure GDPR compliance for mobile data access.
7. Document GDPR compliance progress and establish measures to mitigate risks.
8. Test incident response plans to report breaches within the required 72-hour timeframe.
9. Implement ongoing assessment processes to ensure continuous compliance.
10. Leverage GDPR compliance as a competitive advantage and improve business operations.

By following these steps and staying proactive in their GDPR compliance efforts, companies can navigate the complex regulatory landscape and protect personal data effectively.

For more information on privacy rules around the world, stay tuned for further updates.