A Structured Approach to Process Analysis in Data Protection Compliance: The Process Layer Analysis

The Complexity of Data Protection Compliance Projects

Data protection compliance projects are inherently complex and require a structured, multi-faceted approach. One of the main challenges teams encounter in managing these projects is the absence of a clear methodology. This lack of structure makes it difficult to plan and execute the project effectively, often resulting in compliance gaps.

JURCOM’s Comprehensive Methodology

At JURCOM, we address these challenges through a comprehensive methodology that revolves around three key architectures:

• Process Architecture
• Data Architecture
• Enterprise Architecture

Each of these pillars is crucial for achieving true data protection compliance.

Focus on Process Architecture: Analyzing Business Processes

Today, we’ll focus on our approach to Process Architecture, specifically how we analyze business processes to ensure personal data protection.

Process Layer Analysis: A Five-Step Method

We have developed a unique five-step method called “Process Layer Analysis” to systematically assess and improve business processes for data protection.

• Step 1: Identify the Process
  First, we determine whether a business process exists. Understanding the processes in place is essential for further analysis.
• Step 2: Dataset Check
  Next, we check if the identified process involves any datasets. Knowing if and how data is being processed allows us to track its flow.
• Step 3: Examine for Personal Data
  If a dataset is identified, we assess whether it includes personal data. This step is critical for identifying compliance risks.
• Step 4: GDPR Article 5 Test 
  For any personal data found, we test whether it complies with the fundamental principles outlined in GDPR Article 5 (lawfulness, fairness, transparency, data minimization, etc.).
• Step 5: GDPR Article 6 Test
  Finally, we analyze whether the data processing has a valid legal basis under GDPR Article 6, ensuring the data is processed lawfully.

Redesigning Processes for Data Protection

This structured approach enables us to systematically identify business processes that may pose risks in terms of personal data processing. Therefore, it helps us address these risks effectively and ensure robust data protection measures are in place.

Privacy-by-Design Integration

The solution to these risks often lies in redesigning the process and applying privacy-by-design principles. This method integrates data protection at every stage of the process. Although privacy-by-design covers a broad concept, it helps us proactively identify and address data protection risks while staying aligned with GDPR requirements.

Conclusion

Our Process Layer Analysis simplifies the complexity of data protection compliance by breaking down each step and ensuring alignment with GDPR. This structured approach helps identify risks and integrate data protection into every business process.

Ready to ensure compliance and protect your data? Contact JURCOM today!