Mapping your data flows: a key lever for RGPD compliance

The protection of personal data has been at the heart of corporate concerns since the RGPD (General Data Protection Regulation) came into force. This text imposes precise requirements to guarantee transparency, security and accountability for organizations in data management.

Yet navigating the complexities of the RGPD can prove challenging. That’s where data flow mapping comes in, a strategic tool for ensuring your compliance. With Carto-SI, this task not only becomes more accessible, it also offers a turnkey solution that simplifies responsibilities within the IT department.

Understanding the RGPD and its implications

Adopted by the European Union in 2018, the RGPD aims to protect citizens’ rights when it comes to personal data. It frames their collection, storage and processing, and obliges companies to meet strict obligations.

Among the fundamental principles of the RGPD are:

• Transparency: organizations must clearly inform individuals about the use of their data.
• Data minimization: only strictly necessary information must be collected and processed.
• Data security: technical and organizational measures must be put in place to protect data.
• Accountability: every organization must be able to demonstrate its compliance.

But complying with the RGPD requires more than goodwill. You need to be able to identify precisely what personal data is held, understand how it is used, and be able to always demonstrate that these processes comply with the legislation.

Without a structured approach, such as flow mapping, it becomes difficult for an organization to maintain this compliance.

Data flow mapping: much more than an obligation

Data flow mapping is a visual representation of how information flows within your organization. This work goes far beyond a simple audit: it provides a global and detailed understanding of the interactions between your systems, your users and your partners.

It provides answers to several key questions: Where does your data come from? Where does it go? How is it transformed or used along the way? This in-depth analysis gives you the means to meet your legal obligations while identifying vulnerabilities in your processes.

Data flow mapping involves visually representing the flow of information within an organization. This includes :

• The origin of data (collection from users, internal databases, etc.).
• Destination (internal systems, subcontractors, third parties).
• The processing it undergoes along the way (storage, analysis, transfer).

Let’s take a concrete example: a company collects data via an online form. This information is then transferred to a CRM, then to an emailing service.

Without mapping, it would be difficult to identify where data may be at risk (insecure transfers, non-compliant subcontractors, etc.). With accurate mapping, these flaws become visible and can be corrected.

A response to the data processing register

The RGPD requires all companies to keep a data processing register. This document details every activity involving personal data: collection, storage, analysis, deletion. It must also include information on the actors involved, the purposes of the processing, and the security measures implemented.

To compile an RGPD-compliant activity register, several steps are required:

• List the data collected: identify the information processed (names, emails, addresses, sensitive data, etc.).
• Map flows: define how this data circulates between systems and actors.
• Document purposes: explain why data is collected and used.
• Regularly update the register: the RGPD requires the register to be kept dynamically, in line with changes in processing.

This is where flow mapping becomes essential. It forms the very basis of the register, providing a clear and exhaustive view of flows.

Better still, it doesn’t just produce a static document: it enables it to be kept up to date on an ongoing basis, an imperative to meet the requirements of the RGPD.

With Carto-SI, this task is greatly simplified. The tool guides you step-by-step through the creation of a complete, compliant register, even without a dedicated data processing manager. By simplifying the collection and updating of information, Carto-SI offers IT Departments a practical and intuitive solution for controlling all data flows.

An asset for CIOs, without weighing down teams

An often-dreaded point in RGPD compliance is the need to appoint a data controller, responsible for overseeing all aspects of personal data management. While this function remains central to many companies, it can be a hindrance in organizations with limited human resources.

With a solution like Carto-SI, having a dedicated manager is no longer an unavoidable obligation. The platform provides a clear, accessible structure that directly helps CIOs steer their RGPD compliance. By centralizing all information, simplifying the documentation of flows, and providing tools to identify areas at risk, Carto-SI plays a key role in simplifying responsibilities.

This enables existing teams to focus on their core business, without having to invest in additional resources.

Better visibility for sustainable compliance

In addition to its facilitating role, data flow mapping is a truly strategic tool. It helps not only to meet regulatory requirements, but also to improve overall data management.

By identifying unnecessary or redundant data, companies can optimize their processes and reduce costs. What’s more, it strengthens the trust of customers and partners by demonstrating a concrete commitment to the protection of personal data.

Carto-SI goes one step further, offering a solution that adapts to the specific needs of each company. Thanks to its intuitive approach, you don’t need to be an expert to use it. With just a few clicks, you can visualize your data flows, produce clear reports for audits, and maintain total control over your data.

Carto-SI: the solution that supports you in RGPD compliance

RGPD compliance is often perceived as a complex and tedious task. Yet it can be a transformational lever for your organization. With Carto-SI, you have a powerful ally to navigate these requirements stress-free. The tool offers :

• A complete mapping of your flows.
• Centralized information for better decision-making.
• Simplified management of the data processing register, even without a dedicated manager.
• Valuable help in identifying and correcting risk areas.

Don’t let RGPD compliance be a burden for your company. With Carto-SI, turn this obligation into a strategic asset and secure the future of your data.  Today, create a free account to discover how our solution can revolutionize your data management.