data cutbacks

Four rules for cutting back the data you keep.

1. Determine what info you collect. Audit all sources and forms of data you gather. Make sure there is a business reason for each.
2. Protect sensitive data. Determine what employees or customer information you absolutely need; then, enhance the security around the most important, critical information.
3. Prepare for the long haul. You can't flip a switch and instantly stop packing away data. Getting more selective will take years.
4. Get thick skin. Debates on what to minmize will be fierce. What you view as a liability is another department's future revenue generator.