On May 25, 2018, the European Union implemented the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This new legislation is a massive overhaul in the way data is handled by companies within the EU. It was designed to protect European consumers by strengthening data privacy. But these new rules are more than just a regulatory obligation. The GDPR aims to create a new business culture that prioritizes transparency and puts consumers first.
So let’s discuss how having a GDPR policy will impact various aspects of your organization.
Enhanced Security
It is only natural that having a business model centred on GDPR-compliance will enhance your data security practices. The legislation states that only privileged members of your business have access to sensitive data. This means everything would be password-protected so customer information does not fall into the wrong hands. The GDPR also requires that a security breach be reported within 72 hours.
Ash Conversions International can help your organization build a framework that is secure and compliant. With so much workflow becoming automated through the use of modern technology, it is imperative that your IT systems are equipped with the best security measures possible. ACI can make sure your documents are never compromised – our systems are equipped with state-of-the-art security to ensure your documents and data are protected.
If you are looking for a firm that is trustworthy and qualified to handle sensitive information, then Ash Conversions International is your best choice. It is mandatory that our personnel sign a non-disclosure agreement when hired, and undergo criminal and credit background checks. This level of clearance gives us the right to access highly confidential documents, including data for the Federal Government of Canada.
Cut Data Management Costs
The GDPR requires that all companies keep their data inventory up to date. Increase operational efficiency by getting rid of data and cyber applications that your business no longer needs. Ultimately you will be cutting data management costs by streamlining all your electronic inventory. And since employees will no longer be spending time managing a complicated data infrastructure, they can focus on more important initiatives like building customer relations.
Elimination of Automated Decisions
Although many tasks in the workplace can now be automated, decision-making is not one of them. Under the new GDPR guidelines, a company can no longer make automated decisions by running a customer’s personal data through their systems. In the past, businesses would pre-scan clientele data to decide whether or not they were eligible for certain offers or services, like a mortgage. If the numbers or demographics didn’t add up, the customer’s business was no longer considered valuable. But this is no longer acceptable under the new GDPR policy. Companies will have to spend time digging deeper and getting to know their customers. Snap decisions based on digital data will no longer be allowed.
This may seem like a lot of work for businesses as it requires more front-end staff to spend time with clients. But it is a good investment in the long run as it allows your brand to make a personal connection with your audience. Customers now have a face and backstory, as opposed to a 5-digit number in a data log.
Building Consumer Trust
When you comply with data protection rules, you’re sending a message to your audience that your business can be trusted with their information. GDPR legislation states it is mandatory for businesses to conduct regular audits of what they are doing with customer information. It also requires that each organization hire a data protection officer to ensure the rules are followed properly.
Following a GDPR policy also means posting a privacy notice, which is mandatory for any business website. Visitors will see the notice whenever they are asked to subscribe to a newsletter or enter payment details. It’s a way to inform your customers what information you’re collecting and what you plan to do with it.
By fulfilling some of the most basic policy requirements, you’re increasing your brand’s reputation and, most importantly, its credibility.
Work Towards Compliance with ACI
Ash Conversions International respects the GDPR guidelines and we strive to make sure our clients are meeting the new standards. We understand that compliance can be difficult when it comes to respecting data privacy. But we assure you that a personalized consultation with ACI staff will give you peace of mind. From data consolidation to workflow automation, we are fully prepared to meet your unique business needs. Call ACI at 800-719-9621 – or submit a contact form by clicking the ‘Contact’ button below.
