AkzoNobel

Global Privacy Framework Implementation

Server-side Tracking GDPR Compliance 700+ Websites Global Implementation

Project Overview

As the Product Owner of Global Analytics at AkzoNobel, I led the development and implementation of a comprehensive privacy framework and server-side measurement solution across more than 700 websites worldwide.

This large-scale initiative transformed AkzoNobel's approach to digital analytics, establishing a future-proof foundation that balances robust measurement capabilities with stringent privacy requirements and regulatory compliance.

Project Details

  • Timeline:
    September 2023 - Present
  • Role:
    Product Owner Global Analytics
  • Scope:
    700+ websites across global markets
  • Tools:
    Server-side tracking, Google Analytics, Tag Management Systems

Key Achievements

Server-side Implementation

Developed and deployed a custom server-side measurement framework across 700+ websites

700+ Websites

Privacy Compliance

Ensured GDPR and global privacy regulation compliance across all digital touchpoints

100% Compliance

Global Standardization

Created a standardized measurement approach across all global markets and brands

40+ Countries

Stakeholder Alignment

Collaborated with legal, IT, and marketing teams to ensure end-to-end compliance

15+ Departments

The Challenge

AkzoNobel faced significant challenges in their global digital analytics infrastructure:

Complex Global Footprint

Managing 700+ websites across 40+ countries with varying regulatory requirements and technical implementations.

Evolving Privacy Landscape

Navigating the complex and constantly changing global privacy regulations including GDPR, CCPA, and other regional requirements.

Client-side Limitations

Traditional client-side tracking methods faced increasing challenges with browser restrictions and privacy controls.

Data Quality & Consistency

Maintaining consistent data collection and quality across a diverse range of websites, platforms, and markets.

The Solution

I developed a comprehensive approach to address these challenges:

Custom Server-side Framework

Designed and implemented a proprietary server-side measurement framework that processes data securely and with privacy controls built in.

Global Privacy Standard

Established a unified privacy standard that meets the requirements of all global regulations while providing flexibility for regional variations.

Cross-functional Collaboration

Worked closely with legal, IT, and marketing teams to ensure alignment and compliance throughout the implementation process.

Phased Implementation

Developed a strategic rollout plan to systematically implement the solution across all 700+ websites while minimizing disruption.

Implementation Process

1

Assessment & Strategy

Conducted comprehensive audit of existing analytics infrastructure and developed strategic framework

2

Framework Development

Created custom server-side tracking architecture with built-in privacy controls and compliance features

3

Stakeholder Alignment

Collaborated with legal, IT, and marketing teams to ensure all requirements were met

4

Pilot Implementation

Tested framework on select high-profile websites to validate approach and refine methodology

5

Global Rollout

Systematically implemented solution across all 700+ websites with regional prioritization

6

Training & Documentation

Created comprehensive documentation and training for global teams to maintain and extend the framework

7

Continuous Improvement

Established ongoing monitoring and enhancement processes to adapt to changing requirements

Technical Architecture

Client Side
Website
Minimal JS
Server Side
Custom Processor
Privacy Controls
Analytics Tools
Analytics
Marketing

The server-side architecture minimizes client-side code while maintaining robust data collection capabilities and ensuring privacy compliance at every step.

Results & Impact

Enhanced Privacy Compliance

Achieved 100% compliance with global privacy regulations across all digital properties

Improved Data Quality

30% increase in data reliability and accuracy through server-side processing

Enhanced Site Performance

25% reduction in client-side scripts, improving page load times

Global Standardization

Unified measurement framework across 700+ websites in 40+ countries

Stakeholder Satisfaction

Balanced the needs of marketing, legal, and IT to create a solution that works for all

Technologies Used

Server-side Tagging

Google Analytics

Consent Management

Tag Management

JavaScript

Data Layer

Need a robust privacy-first measurement solution for your organization?

I can help you implement server-side tracking and privacy frameworks that balance compliance requirements with analytics needs.

Get in Touch