Core Data Governance Standards

Must-Have: Unified data classification, data ownership accountability, access control (RBAC), data retention schedule, privacy-by-design, data residency mapping, audit logging, breach response protocols, vendor governance.

1. Audit existing regional policies
2. Adopt strictest requirement across all areas (typically GDPR sets the floor)
3. Layer region-specific addenda onto global standards
4. Deploy tools: data mapping, DPA automation, consent platforms, audit logging

Bottom Line: Your global standard = strictest regional requirement. Budget 15–25% compliance cost increase.

Regulatory Requirements (Build to Strictest)RegionKey RuleEU (GDPR)Consent-based, subject rights, data residency, strict deletion timelinesChina (PIPL)In-country data storage/processing; no cross-border transfersBrazil (LGPD)GDPR-like with narrower legitimate interestCalifornia (CCPA)Opt-out consent modelImplementation Path