What we do know is that those behind the decision suggest there will be just minor changes which will aim to simplify GDPR rules. Look deeper at what is being proposed and you may find cause for concern.

After years getting to grips with the EU rules we face the need to adapt our approach yet again.

Impact of change

Initially there is a question of how to integrate regional differences into your data handling. Those operating within the EU may need to segregate data by market in line with differing legislation or choose to forgo the new rules in lieu of GDPR requirements so painstakingly implemented. 

There are advantages to both, but by separating datasets you may find strategic decisions become tougher, more diluted due to the new barriers splitting your customer data. Whereas maintaining one databank restricts you to EU rules meaning a lost opportunity may slip by under the new UK-specific rules. 

Of course there is also the need to consider the ethical side of things. Customers now accustomed to added privacy may take a dim view of companies they perceive to be taking liberties with their data. Trust in your company is among the most valuable commodities, regaining trust after it is lost is among the most difficult tasks you can pursue. 

What this really means for us is unclear, because the Government’s aim of “simplifying” privacy rules could amount to a simple rewriting of existing European law or it could introduce a myriad of brand new obstacles. 

Time will tell, but your customers will be keeping a close eye on proceedings. 

The post Impact of changing privacy laws on your marketing activities appeared first on Brighter Directions.

Our resident GDPR consultant Danielle, has produced an informative, clear white-paper to help dispel some of the myths that SME’s should be taking to protect your business in the future, which is totally free for you to download and utilise, containing some interesting case studies and tips to take on your GDPR roadmap.

If you need further information, there is lots of guidance published on our blog feed, and you can also call us for a free initial consultation on 01246 586330, or email danielle@brighterdirections.co.uk

Click here for our free download GDPR whitepaper

The post GDPR Basic’s for SME’s – Whitepaper Download appeared first on Brighter Directions.

As a result of these announcements, we thought it would be useful to share the key points coming from the new GDPR, to ensure you protect your business against any break in data requirements in the future:

1. Changes how/ what companies can do in regards to personal data processing/ management
2. Personal data means any data which holds personal information (this now includes named email addresses to a company address) – essentially any form of data which could be used to identify that person either directly or indirectly.
3. Social Media collation is NOT excluded from this regulation, therefore your data capture content, such as LinkedIn database will also be affected after the passing of the date
4. New process to demonstrate compliance will include:
   • Collected for specified, explicit and legitimate purposes (building on from the re-permissioning law, you must ASK the record how and specifically what they would like to receive
   • You are responsible for checking accuracy and keeping the data up to date. This usually means that you need to refresh every 6 or so months (ave)
   • Kept in a form which permits identification of data subjects for no longer than is necessary for the purposes for which the personal data are processed. Therefore you will now need further security added to your record keeping.
   • Processed in a manner that ensures appropriate security of the personal data. This is linked to the manner in which you communicate, through marketing – for example your email marketing software, social media, website collection forms etc.
5. This is applicable for both B2B and B2C organisations.
6. You may need to appoint/ recruit a Data Protection Officer, if you manage large scale data

The GDPR will come into full application by the 25th May 2018, so you have a year to prepare and cleanse your databases.

To read the new regulation policy in full, click here.

If you would like help with any element of your marketing, please contact our expert team via the website or call 01246 252855.

The post What you need to know about the new GDPR data regulation – May 2018 appeared first on Brighter Directions.