This Digest Intro is like all the others I write while attending an extraordinary event; I summarize the highlights … as I saw them. Of course, I’m speaking about the IAPP Global Privacy Summit. It was a blast and now I’m exhausted.

One of the things that blew my socks off was being introduced to the community art project known as PostSecret. Go here to check it out. Mind you, going to the website doesn’t really do justice to the amazing keynote delivered by Frank Warren. For those of you who don’t know about the project (and I wasn’t aware until this past Wednesday), Frank invites strangers to anonymously send him secrets. And then he posts them. Pretty simple, but pretty powerful as well, especially when you hear Frank tell you stories about how it’s changed his life.

Threaded throughout the project is a privacy theme … there’s anonymity, but then again, there isn’t. It really makes you think about how fundamentally important privacy is to all of us. 

From a Canadian perspective, I can tell you there was an interesting session in which Commissioner Therrien spoke with and moderated a panel of the Commissioners (or DPAs) from Hong Kong, Ireland and the UK. The topic of their discussion concerned how commissioners use a consultative approach with industry to ultimately help achieve compliance. That being said, there was plenty of discussion also about how privacy laws with real penalties are definitely a reality and will continue to be for some time. I figure it’s just a matter of time before Canada adopts the European model and on the one hand promotes the idea of compliance through consultation, but on the other hand ensures there’s enough dissuasive penalties for those who disregard their obligations outright.

In addition to appreciating the keynotes, meetings and a number of thoughtful sessions, the conference also delivered on its promises for excellent networking. It was great to meet so many folks in DC this week, and I wish there was time for more of those conversations and connections. 

Now the IAPP is, of course, knee-deep in putting the final touches on the Symposium in Toronto this May to ensure it is equally successful. 

Speaking of the Symposium, the discount for the hotel rate ends today. Hope you can take advantage. And, first warning … the conference is likely going to sell out so I would suggest you reserve your spot now.