Who are identified as key individuals in the process of data classification?

Stakeholders are identified as key individuals in the process of data classification because they have a vested interest in how data is classified, managed, and protected. This group can include executives, managers, compliance officers, and others who set policies and determine the required levels of confidentiality, integrity, and availability for data. Stakeholders also help identify the types of data the organization collects and uses, assess risks, and define the consequences of data misclassification or breaches.

In contrast, developers may implement data classification systems but are typically not responsible for determining data classification policies. End users handle data on a daily basis but do not usually have the authority to classify or make decisions about the data. Third-party vendors may interact with data but generally follow the classification policies set by the organization and are not key decision-makers in the classification process. Thus, stakeholders play a pivotal role by providing the necessary oversight and direction for effective data classification strategies.