Insights
A leading APAC insurer faced a major challenge, a stalled Data Privacy and Protection (DPP) programme with 200 million unstructured files across seven countries needing classification and retention controls. The initial approach lacked clear governance and an effective third-party agreement, resulting in misalignment and inefficiency.
Northwick Advisors stepped in to redesign the solution, renegotiate contracts with third party suppliers, and restore momentum. Leveraging Microsoft Azure Information Protection (AIP) and custom PowerShell scripts, the third-party team automated file labelling and streamlined the process for business users. All files within folders were assigned standard labels, simplifying compliance and data management.
Despite technical hurdles, such as script performance, unsupported file types, and access issues, the programme achieved remarkable results. The first six countries’ 100 million files were labelled in 12 months. For the seventh country, a new vendor was engaged, completing its 100 million files in less than half the time, extending the programme to just 14 months.
Key benefits included:
- Over 80% of unstructured files labelled, with unsupported files managed locally.
- Retention policies removed 30% – 60% of outdated files, reducing storage and backup costs.
- Confidential data is now protected from unauthorised removal.
- Overall file count on live platforms reduced by nearly 50%, improving operational efficiency.
- The renegotiated agreement saved the client over US$200,000.
The successful recovery laid a strong foundation for future phases, including auto labelling and enhanced compliance reporting. The insurer now enjoys improved data governance, compliance, and resilience, ready to build on this momentum.
