As a multitude of digital legal solutions emerge in the rapidly digitizing landscape, automated data mapping tools are increasingly becoming a salient feature in corporations worldwide. These tools are critical for addressing a multitude of obligations, such as data subject access requests (DSARs), records of processing activities (RoPAs), vendor risk management, and other data privacy compliance requirements. Foundational to these tasks is a reliable and efficient map of the personal information that the organization processes. However, there are some red flags in selecting and using these automated data mapping tools that corporations and law firms should be wary of.
This article by Osano on JD Supra helpfully outlines 5 potential pitfalls in the adoption and usage of such tools. To save you a click, here is a brief summary of these potential warning signs:
- Overreliance on automation: While automation can certainly increase efficiency, an over-dependence can obscure nuances within your data landscape that only hands-on examination can reveal. As such, a balance between manual oversight and automated processes is crucial.
- Insufficient reporting: A good data mapping tool should be able to provide comprehensive and customizable reports catering to your specific corporate needs. If reporting tools seem lackluster, it might indicate problems down the line.
- Complex integrations: If a tool requires complex technical integration, it could limit its usability and adoption within your organization.
- Transparency issues: If there’s a lack of clarity about how the tool collects, processes, stores, and secures data, this is a major red flag.
- Cost management: While inexpensive tools may seem enticing, it’s important to evaluate whether these cost savings come at the expense of critical features or proper functionality. Conversely, an overpriced tool may not necessarily equate to superior performance. Therefore, weigh cost and utility before making a decision.
Choosing the right automated data mapping tools is a nuanced and critical task. By keeping this red flag checklist in mind, you can better navigate the proliferating suite of offerings on the crowded digital marketplace and ensure you make the right choice for your organization’s data compliance needs.