Maintaining Data Security and Compliance in Market Research

Editor’s Note: Matt Benard is the Compliance and Information Security Manager at Escalent. He works with compliance teams behind the scenes to maintain regulatory compliance and keep your information safe. Here’s a high-level overview of how he makes that happen.

Compliance, data security and privacy have long been areas of importance for the market research industry; however, the rise in complexity and risk associated with them has been exponential over the past decade. On a near daily basis, we are all inundated with reports in the news about data breaches and security hacks, highlighting the need for constant vigilance against new threats. In addition, the ever-shifting regulatory landscape requires more attention than ever to ensure proper processes and procedures are in place. We strongly believe that maintaining trust is one of the central principles to a productive relationship. As the company’s Compliance and Information Security manager, I am really proud of the steps we have taken to further that mission.

There are few industries where attention to compliance and data security is more important than in the health sector. To help guide third parties working in this space, leaders in the healthcare industry came together to develop the HITRUST CSF as a certifiable framework that provides organizations with a comprehensive, flexible and efficient approach to regulatory compliance and risk management. As one of the only market research firms to obtain this rigorous HITRUST certification, we have shown a deep commitment to keeping data safe and lead the way as a trusted partner for all of our clients.

This year the big topic in the compliance world is the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This complex law has very real implications for many industries, including market research. We have been preparing for the GDPR since well before its implementation and I am staying close to the dialog and precedents as the law gains traction. Our clients can rest assured that we are fully able to maintain compliance with the GDPR and are working as partners in adhering to it.

Our goal is to go beyond simply checking the boxes of compliance by leading the way as a trusted partner for market research. All of our clients have full access to me if they have any questions related to our certifications, the impact of GDPR on market research, or anything else in this area. Simply reach out to your Escalent contact or leave a comment below and I’ll be sure to follow up.

Want to know more about what we’re doing for compliance and privacy? Send us a note and let’s chat!