The Office of the Data Protection Authority (ODPA) has launched a new resource designed to make life easier for Data Protection Officers (DPOs) and organisations dealing with Data Subject Access Requests (DSARs).
The DSAR Manager tool is a practical spreadsheet that helps controllers and DPOs keep accurate, structured records throughout the DSAR process.
Located within our newly created DPO Zone , the DSAR Manager tool (and accompanying guidance) gives organisations a straightforward way to stay organised, ensure nothing is missed, and build a clear audit trail of decisions and actions taken. This strengthens internal processes and supports more efficient communication with data subjects and, where necessary, with the ODPA.
Keeping detailed DSAR records is essential for good governance. Logged correctly, these records support administrative planning, statistical reporting, and organisational memory, and they give organisations confidence that they can evidence the steps taken in each case.
The ODPA encourages controllers to document the decisions made at each stage of a request, along with any factors that influenced those decisions. The DSAR Manager provides an ideal place to capture this information, especially when paired with a well‑structured filing system and consistent naming conventions for related correspondence and supporting documents.
Additional Resources
The DPO Zone is also home to a range of helpful guidance articles and tools tailored to the needs of DPOs and privacy professionals.