The selection of “privacy” as dictionary.com’s 2013 Word of The Year holds significant importance for data governance enthusiasts.

Data Privacy is newsworthy

Despite not being a new term, it garnered attention throughout 2013 due to its newsworthiness. The word choice reflects the profound impact of privacy-related issues that emerged during that year. Notable events such as Edward Snowden’s exposure of the NSA’s surveillance activities (ironically compromising privacy) and the introduction of groundbreaking technologies like Google Glass have propelled data privacy to the forefront of news coverage.

Data Privacy Regulations

On a national level, South Africa enacted the Protection of Personal Information Actl (PoPIA) into law, enforcing severe penalties for companies found guilty of mishandling personal data. Consequently, privacy has emerged as a critical driver for data governance in the current year. It is essential for organizations to prioritize data privacy compliance to avoid negative media attention and potential legal repercussions.

Data Governance

By adopting robust data governance practices, businesses can proactively safeguard individuals’ privacy and maintain their reputation. Ensuring compliance with data privacy legislation is crucial, as failing to do so could result in detrimental consequences for companies. It is imperative for organizations to recognize the relevance of data governance in protecting privacy and maintaining trust with their stakeholders.