Catalog
method#Data#Analytics#Security

Data Classification

Data classification refers to the systematic categorization of data to enhance its use, security, and management.

Data classification provides a structured approach for identifying, categorizing, and managing data within organizations.
Established
Medium

Classification

  • Medium
  • Technical
  • Design
  • Advanced

Technical context

Database management systems.Cloud storage solutions.Security software.

Principles & goals

Data should always be classified.The security of sensitive data is of utmost priority.Transparent processes are crucial for data management.
Build
Enterprise

Use cases & scenarios

Compromises

  • Abuse of classification systems.
  • Non-compliance with regulations.
  • Data leaks due to misclassification.
  • Document all classification steps.
  • Regular training for staff.
  • Clear communication of policies.

I/O & resources

  • Existing datasets for classification.
  • Classification policies and standards.
  • Training materials for staff.
  • Documentation of the classification.
  • Reports on data security.
  • Access logs.

Description

Data classification provides a structured approach for identifying, categorizing, and managing data within organizations. Effective classification can minimize risks and enhance data security. This process aids in finding relevant data more easily and complying with legal requirements.

✔

  • Increased data security.
  • Better compliance with regulations.
  • More efficient data management.

✖

  • Limited flexibility due to classification policies.
  • Increased effort in data classification.
  • Potential misclassifications.

  • Number of Classified Data

    Metric to assess the efficiency of the classification system.

  • Access Requests per Category

    The number of requests for access to classified data categories.

  • Maintenance Costs per Year

    Annual costs for maintaining and updating the classification system.

Data Classification in an Insurance Company

An insurance company implements a classification system to protect customer data and control access.

Data Classification in Retail

A retailer classifies sales data to optimize inventory.

Classification and Storage in the Cloud

An organization uses cloud services for data classification and storage.

1

Train staff on data classification.

2

Implement classification policies.

3

Conduct regular reviews of the classifications.

⚠️ Technical debt & bottlenecks

  • Old classification systems need to be replaced.
  • Inadequate updates of security policies.
  • Undocumented classification processes.
Data confusion due to lack of classification.Classification errors.Delays in data processing.
  • Accessing classified data without authorization.
  • Using incorrect classification policies.
  • Non-compliance with data protection regulations.
  • Lack of training in data security.
  • Inadequate resources for implementation.
  • Lack of clear responsibilities.
Knowledge of data management.Understanding of data protection regulations.Ability to analyze data.
Compliance with data protection regulations.Need for clear data management strategies.Requirement to protect sensitive data.
  • • Legal requirements for data protection.
  • • Technological limitations regarding data management.
  • • Organizational policies on data security.