New Data Classification Initiative

Security. Risk. Regulations. Three words that may make many people bristle. Not data stewards at UW–‍Madison, however. They embrace these terms, as they know it’s their responsibility to consider how everyone works with and shares information in a way that mitigates risk. It’s with this in mind that DoIT and data governance have embarked upon a new Data Classification Initiative, which strives to bring alignment between UW–‍Madison and the Universities of Wisconsin’s revised Data Classification Policy (SYS 1031). This effort will simplify how we — as an organization — categorize and protect information. The result:

• Reduced confusion
• Strengthened compliance
• Lowered data security and privacy risks

Tell me more

This new initiative arose from campus feedback calling for clearer examples, better training and tools that make data classification easier to understand and apply. Success will mean a unified three-tier model (high risk, medium risk, low risk), supported by “just-in-time” guidance and automation that will help everyone understand how to appropriately use, store and share data. This initiative is sponsored by the Chief Information Officer and the Vice Provost for Data, Academic Planning & Institutional Research (DAPIR). To learn more, visit the Data Classification Initiative webpage.