How DSPM Makes Better Data Governance a Reality

Microsoft's recently introduced Data Security Posture Management (DSPM), part of the Purview family, has many an M365 admin wondering What is it? Simply put, it's a set of tools designed to provide clarity, control, and confidence over sensitive data management within Microsoft 365. DSPM tools are aimed precisely at challenges around data governance, especially as AI continues to reshape the workplace.

In a recent Orchestry webinar featuring Microsoft MVP Joanne Klein, we delved into the two flavors of Microsoft's newest security tools: traditional DSPM and DSPM for AI. Let’s review her analysis of these tools to understand why they're essential, how they integrate with existing Microsoft 365 security capabilities, and what they mean for your organization's data governance posture.

What Does Data Security Posture Management Do?

DSPM, at its heart, helps organizations identify vulnerabilities related to data across their Microsoft 365 environments by scanning and monitoring user interactions, data sensitivity, and existing protection mechanisms. What sets DSPM apart is its integration with tools like Information Protection, Data Loss Prevention (DLP), and Insider Risk Management (IRM). DSPM examines audit logs, scans content using built-in and custom classifiers, and reviews existing labels and policies to pinpoint risks and recommend actions. For instance, DSPM can highlight a lack of protective labels on sensitive documents or suggest new DLP policies when risky sharing activities are detected.

Imagine DSPM detects employees frequently sharing tax documents externally without appropriate labels. It would then proactively recommend creating tailored DLP and IRM policies to safeguard this sensitive information. With these actionable insights, DSPM doesn’t just alert you to problems—it actively guides you towards solutions, significantly enhancing your data protection strategy.

DSPM Security: There's a New Sheriff in AI Town

DSPM for AI, formerly known as Microsoft Purview AI Hub, addresses unique concerns introduced by AI tool usage in workplaces. With generative AI tools like Copilot and external platforms such as ChatGPT surging in popularity, now is the time for businesses to grasp the implications for company data when employees utilize these services. DSPM for AI helps you discover exactly which AI apps employees are interacting with and the nature of the data involved.

For more security and compliance strategies, discover 5 essential tips to secure Microsoft 365 every IT leader should know.

DSPM Features

One powerful feature within DSPM for AI is "Data Risk Assessment." It automatically identifies your top 100 most active SharePoint sites and assesses them for oversharing risks. This helps you focus efforts where they're needed most. Once risks are identified, DSPM for AI provides streamlined recommendations, like enabling sensitivity labels, setting default document labels—or even more aggressive measures like restricting content discoverability. Although some of these recommendations, like broad content restriction, should be cautiously applied, they empower admins to immediately mitigate identified risks while longer-term, more nuanced solutions are developed.

DSPM for AI

The ease of configuration and rapid insights provided by DSPM for AI are notable. For example, admins can quickly deploy Adaptive Protection policies to prevent sensitive data uploads to external AI services—crucial for mitigating data leaks. DSPM for AI even integrates with Purview Compliance Manager to align recommendations with regulatory frameworks, providing a practical roadmap for regulatory adherence around AI data usage.

Look Before You Leap

All that said, DSPM tools aren’t set-it-and-forget-it solutions. A successful DSPM deployment hinges on the careful consideration of your organization’s data governance maturity. And it's crucial to have an established understanding of Purview’s broader capabilities, including sensitivity labeling, DLP, and IRM before fully implementing DSPM recommendations. Additionally, while DSPM automates many tasks, expert oversight remains essential, particularly around interpreting policy implications and preventing business disruption.

Ultimately, Microsoft's DSPM tools significantly enhance your visibility and control over data security at a time when doing so is only becoming more complex. They empower your organization to harness AI confidently, knowing sensitive data interactions are continually monitored and managed. So as you navigate these new tools, maintain a thoughtful approach that leverages DSPM’s strengths while staying vigilant about its extensive automation. Done right, DSPM can set your organization up to effectively manage data risks today and as new digital capabilities evolve.

Watch our webinar on What is DSPM to learn how it works, why it matters, and how to implement it across SaaS and AI tools.