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
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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
Privacy Compliance
Ensured GDPR and global privacy regulation compliance across all digital touchpoints
Global Standardization
Created a standardized measurement approach across all global markets and brands
Stakeholder Alignment
Collaborated with legal, IT, and marketing teams to ensure end-to-end compliance
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
Assessment & Strategy
Conducted comprehensive audit of existing analytics infrastructure and developed strategic framework
Framework Development
Created custom server-side tracking architecture with built-in privacy controls and compliance features
Stakeholder Alignment
Collaborated with legal, IT, and marketing teams to ensure all requirements were met
Pilot Implementation
Tested framework on select high-profile websites to validate approach and refine methodology
Global Rollout
Systematically implemented solution across all 700+ websites with regional prioritization
Training & Documentation
Created comprehensive documentation and training for global teams to maintain and extend the framework
Continuous Improvement
Established ongoing monitoring and enhancement processes to adapt to changing requirements
Technical Architecture
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