Data Security and Global IT Sourcing
In the world of IT development, data protection is a top priority. Data faces many of the same risks when sent to a global sourcing provider as it does when kept in-house. Intellectual property is one of the greatest assets an organization can possess and proper security measures should always be implemented to protect it. Problems with security can be avoided when an outsourcing company takes precautionary steps before sending work to a global sourcing provider.
When searching for a vendor, there are certain criteria that are considered when choosing a company. One of the main factors that should be included in the decision process is the vendor’s data security policies. There should be clear, enforceable policies in place and the access controls should be identified. Many of the larger vendors will have certifications showing that information security practices are upheld. Some firms will have obtained the ISO 27001 certification, which means the company documents and follows information security practices and controls.
It is important to find out how the vendor enforces access controls and how these controls are updated when employees change jobs or leave the company. Some vendors will offer to provide development on a dedicated data server, which will include audit control access. Once a vendor is chosen, IT managers must make sure the company follows the outsourcer’s industry best practices and compliance guidelines of the home country.
Whatever policies and access controls that are discussed should be outlined in detail in the contract. A signed non-disclosure agreement, non-compete agreement and no solicitation agreement can provide additional protection for the outsourcing company. If a vendor refuses to include data protection information in the contract, it would be wise to consider a different global sourcing provider. Even after the initial terms are agreed upon and the contracts are signed, an outsourcing company should perform regular audits to ensure that data privacy policies are being followed and enforced.
Only the information that is crucial to the project should be shared with the global sourcing provider. The outsourcing company will have to carefully evaluate the propriety data and technology that are needed to successfully develop the outsourced projects. In-house employees should be aware of what information is acceptable to share when talking with the global sourcing provider.
By being aware of the potential challenges associated with data protection and taking preventative steps, an outsourcing company can reduce the associated risks. A&E Consulting can help you evaluate data protection issues when global sourcing and will oversee the first outsourced project.
Tags: data protection, data security, global IT sourcing, global sourcing provider, intellectual property, IT development