1. Explanation of GDPR
The General Data Protection Regulation, or GDPR, stands as a landmark data privacy regulation that has sent ripples far beyond the borders of the European Union, where it was originally enacted in May 2018. GDPR was designed with a clear and ambitious goal in mind: to safeguard the personal data of individuals in an era when the digital landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace. In this era of rapid technological advancement, the protection of personal data has become an issue of paramount importance.
At its core, GDPR is a set of regulations aimed at enhancing the rights and privacy of individuals by establishing strict rules and standards for the handling and processing of their personal information. The key objectives of GDPR can be summarized as follows:
a. Data Protection: GDPR is primarily focused on safeguarding the personal data of individuals. This includes any information that can directly or indirectly identify a person, such as names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and even IP addresses. GDPR emphasizes the need for data controllers (organizations that collect and process data) to handle this information with the utmost care and security.
b. Transparency: GDPR promotes transparency in data processing. It requires organizations to inform individuals about how their data will be used, who will have access to it, and for what purposes. This transparency empowers individuals to make informed decisions about sharing their personal information.
c. Consent: Under GDPR, obtaining clear and explicit consent from individuals is crucial for processing their data. Organizations must seek permission before collecting and using personal data, and individuals have the right to withdraw their consent at any time.
d. Data Rights: GDPR grants individuals a set of rights over their personal data. These rights include the right to access their data, correct inaccuracies, request erasure (the “right to be forgotten”), and receive a copy of their data in a commonly used format.
e. Data Security: GDPR mandates that organizations implement robust data security measures to protect personal data from breaches and unauthorized access. Data breaches must be reported to authorities and affected individuals promptly.
f. Accountability and Governance: GDPR places the onus on organizations to demonstrate compliance. They must appoint Data Protection Officers (DPOs), conduct impact assessments, and maintain records of data processing activities.
g. Global Applicability: While GDPR originates from the EU, its reach extends far beyond European borders. Any organization, regardless of its location, is subject to GDPR if it processes the personal data of EU residents. This extraterritorial scope has made GDPR a global benchmark for data protection.
GDPR represents a monumental shift in how personal data is treated, and its principles have paved the way for similar regulations worldwide. Understanding the fundamental objectives of GDPR is essential for comprehending its impact not only on European businesses but also on the broader landscape of global data privacy and the future of US business.
2. Impact of GDPR on American Business
The reach of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) extends far beyond the European continent, impacting American businesses in ways that may not have been immediately apparent when the regulation was first introduced. While GDPR is an EU regulation, its influence has been keenly felt by American companies, particularly those that operate within the European market. The impact of GDPR on American business can be summarized in several key ways:
1. Compliance Obligations: American companies that handle the personal data of European citizens are required to comply with GDPR. This means adhering to the regulation’s strict data protection and privacy requirements, regardless of their location. Many U.S. businesses have had to invest significant resources to ensure they are GDPR-compliant. This includes adjusting data collection and processing practices, enhancing data security measures, and appointing Data Protection Officers.
2. Market Access: For American businesses looking to expand their operations into the European market, GDPR compliance is not optional. Access to the vast European consumer base often hinges on demonstrating compliance with GDPR. This has created a regulatory barrier for companies that do not adhere to European data protection standards.
3. Consumer Trust: GDPR has elevated consumer awareness and expectations regarding data privacy. American companies operating in Europe have had to adopt stringent privacy practices to gain and maintain the trust of European consumers. Demonstrating commitment to data protection has become a competitive advantage in the European market.
4. Data Transfer Challenges: GDPR’s restrictions on cross-border data transfers have posed challenges for American companies that need to move data between the EU and the U.S. The EU-U.S. Privacy Shield, a framework that facilitated such transfers, was invalidated by the European Court of Justice in 2020. As a result, American businesses have had to rely on alternative mechanisms, such as Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs), to legally transfer data.
5. Legal Risks and Penalties: Non-compliance with GDPR can result in severe financial penalties. American businesses operating in Europe are subject to these penalties if they fail to adhere to the regulation’s requirements. These penalties can significantly impact a company’s bottom line and reputation.
6. Data Protection as a Competitive Advantage: Some American companies have turned GDPR compliance into a competitive advantage. They use their commitment to data protection and privacy as a selling point, attracting consumers who prioritize data security and transparency.
In summary, GDPR has had a profound and lasting impact on American businesses, particularly those with ties to the European market. It has necessitated changes in business practices, legal compliance, and data handling procedures. Moreover, it has altered the way American companies view data privacy, with many recognizing it not only as a legal requirement but also as a strategic imperative for success in the global market. As the data privacy landscape continues to evolve, understanding and adapting to the implications of GDPR remains essential for businesses operating in the United States.
3. Legality of GDPR in the US:
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is undeniably a European regulation, but its legal applicability and implications for American companies have sparked debates and raised important questions. To assess the legality of GDPR in the United States and its potential legal consequences for American businesses, we need to consider several key aspects:
1. Extraterritorial Reach: GDPR’s extraterritorial scope is one of its defining features. It applies not only to businesses physically located within the European Union but also to those that process the personal data of EU residents, regardless of their location. This means that many American companies fall under the jurisdiction of GDPR if they handle European data subjects’ information.
2. Conflict with US Privacy Laws: GDPR’s stringent data protection requirements can conflict with certain aspects of U.S. privacy laws and regulations. The United States has a sectoral approach to data privacy, with various federal and state laws governing different aspects of data protection. This fragmented legal landscape can make it challenging for American companies to align their practices with GDPR’s comprehensive framework.
3. Privacy Shield Invalidation: The EU-U.S. Privacy Shield, which allowed for the legal transfer of data between the EU and the U.S., was invalidated by the European Court of Justice in 2020. This decision created legal uncertainties for American companies that relied on the Privacy Shield to conduct transatlantic data transfers.
4. Potential Legal Consequences: American companies that fail to comply with GDPR while processing European data may face legal consequences. GDPR includes significant fines for non-compliance, which can have a substantial financial impact on businesses. Moreover, regulatory authorities in the EU have the power to investigate and penalize non-compliant companies.
5. Data Protection Legislation in the US: Some American states, such as California with the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), have enacted their own data protection laws, resembling GDPR in certain respects. While these laws primarily apply to residents of those states, they have prompted discussions at the federal level about the need for a comprehensive U.S. data privacy law. The development of federal legislation could impact the relationship between GDPR and American privacy regulations.
6. International Business Operations: American companies with global operations, including those that conduct business in the EU, must carefully navigate the interplay between GDPR and U.S. privacy laws. Developing comprehensive compliance strategies is essential to avoid legal challenges and maintain trust with European customers.
While GDPR is not a U.S. law, its global applicability and the extraterritorial reach of its provisions mean that it has legal implications for American businesses, particularly those involved in cross-border data processing. Compliance with GDPR is not optional for these companies, and they must carefully consider its legal requirements and potential consequences. As data privacy continues to gain prominence both domestically and internationally, American companies must stay vigilant in understanding the evolving legal landscape to ensure they are meeting their obligations and protecting the personal data of individuals, whether in the EU or the United States.
4. Compliance Challenges
Complying with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) presents a multitude of challenges for American businesses, ranging from the complexities of data protection requirements to the potentially severe penalties for non-compliance. Let’s explore these challenges in detail:
1. Understanding the Regulatory Landscape: GDPR is a comprehensive regulation with numerous provisions, each carrying its own set of requirements. American businesses must invest time and resources in understanding the intricacies of GDPR, including its terminology, obligations, and nuances.
2. Data Mapping and Inventory: One of the fundamental requirements of GDPR is knowing where personal data is stored, how it is processed, and who has access to it. Achieving full data transparency often involves extensive data mapping and inventory efforts, which can be especially challenging for organizations with large datasets.
3. Data Minimization and Purpose Limitation: GDPR mandates that personal data should only be collected for specific, legitimate purposes and retained for no longer than necessary. This requirement can be at odds with business practices that involve collecting and storing vast amounts of data for potential future use.
4. Consent Management: Obtaining clear and explicit consent from individuals for data processing activities can be challenging. American businesses must ensure their consent mechanisms meet GDPR’s high standards and offer individuals the ability to withdraw consent easily.
5. Data Security Measures: GDPR requires robust data security measures to protect personal data from breaches and unauthorized access. Ensuring data security may necessitate significant investments in cybersecurity infrastructure and protocols.
6. Data Subject Rights: GDPR grants individuals various rights over their data, including the right to access, rectify, or delete their information. Handling these requests promptly and effectively can be demanding, especially for organizations with a large customer base.
7. Data Transfer Mechanisms: With the invalidation of the EU-U.S. Privacy Shield, American companies must rely on alternative mechanisms, such as Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs), for transferring data between the EU and the U.S. These mechanisms require careful implementation and oversight.
8. Data Protection Officers (DPOs): Under certain circumstances, organizations are required to appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) responsible for GDPR compliance. Identifying qualified individuals to fulfill this role can be a challenge, particularly for smaller businesses.
9. Vendor and Third-Party Compliance: American businesses often rely on third-party vendors and service providers that may process personal data on their behalf. Ensuring these vendors are GDPR-compliant adds an extra layer of complexity to compliance efforts.
10. Penalties for Non-Compliance: Perhaps one of the most significant challenges is the potential for substantial fines in the event of non-compliance with GDPR. Regulatory authorities in the EU have the authority to impose fines of up to €20 million or 4% of the company’s global annual revenue, whichever is higher. This financial risk underscores the importance of robust compliance efforts.
The challenges of GDPR compliance are multifaceted, requiring American businesses to navigate a complex regulatory landscape, adapt their data handling practices, and allocate resources to ensure adherence. Non-compliance is not just a matter of legal risk but can also harm an organization’s reputation and customer trust. As data privacy regulations continue to evolve, it is imperative for U.S. businesses to proactively address these challenges to thrive in a data-driven global economy.
5. Data Privacy Trends
In addition to GDPR, there are broader data privacy trends and regulations emerging globally that are shaping the landscape for US businesses. Understanding these trends is crucial for American companies, as they influence data privacy practices and compliance requirements beyond GDPR:
1. Global Privacy Legislation: Many countries and regions are following the EU’s lead and enacting their own data privacy regulations. For example, Brazil’s Lei Geral de Proteção de Dados (LGPD) and California’s California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) are among the prominent ones. These regulations often share similarities with GDPR, including requirements for data transparency, consent, and individual rights. US businesses that operate internationally must adapt to these diverse regulatory landscapes.
2. Data Localization Requirements: Some countries are introducing data localization laws that require businesses to store data within their borders. This trend can pose challenges for US companies with global operations, as they may need to establish data centers or revise data storage practices to comply with these laws.
3. Stricter Consent and Transparency: Across the globe, there is a growing emphasis on obtaining clear and informed consent from individuals before collecting and processing their data. Transparency requirements, similar to those in GDPR, are becoming common, ensuring that individuals understand how their data will be used.
4. Focus on Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs): Data Protection Impact Assessments, which evaluate the potential risks of data processing activities, are gaining traction. DPIAs are becoming a standard practice in assessing the impact of data processing on individuals’ privacy and implementing mitigating measures.
5. Enhanced Individual Rights: Data privacy regulations are increasingly empowering individuals with greater control over their data. Expanding individual rights, such as the “right to be forgotten” or data portability, are becoming standard features of privacy regulations. US businesses must be prepared to accommodate these rights when handling personal data.
6. Data Breach Notification Requirements: Many jurisdictions now mandate prompt and transparent reporting of data breaches to regulatory authorities and affected individuals. This trend underscores the importance of robust data security measures and incident response plans.
7. Global Collaboration and Cross-Border Data Transfers: The regulation of cross-border data transfers is becoming more complex. International agreements and mechanisms for data transfer, such as the recent EU-U.S. Privacy Shield 2.0 negotiations, are under scrutiny. American companies must navigate evolving frameworks to ensure the lawful transfer of data.
8. Data Ethics and Corporate Responsibility: Beyond legal compliance, there is a growing focus on data ethics and corporate responsibility. Companies are expected to demonstrate a commitment to ethical data practices, which includes responsible data handling and consideration for societal impacts.
These data privacy trends indicate that the landscape is evolving beyond GDPR, impacting US businesses operating both domestically and globally. While GDPR set the stage for comprehensive data protection, other regions are embracing similar principles and adapting them to their unique legal and cultural contexts. Staying informed about these trends and proactively aligning data practices with emerging regulations is essential for American businesses to maintain compliance, build trust with customers, and remain competitive in the global marketplace.
6. Consumer Awareness and Trust
The introduction of GDPR and similar data privacy regulations has had a profound impact on consumer awareness and trust regarding data privacy in the United States. These regulations have not only reshaped the legal landscape but have also raised consumers’ expectations and awareness about how their personal data is handled. Let’s explore how GDPR and similar regulations are influencing consumer attitudes and trust in the US:
1. Heightened Awareness: GDPR’s stringent requirements and high-profile cases of data breaches and privacy violations have brought data privacy issues to the forefront of public consciousness. American consumers are increasingly aware of their rights and the importance of safeguarding their personal information.
2. Transparency Expectations: GDPR’s emphasis on transparency and clear communication has set a new standard for how businesses should interact with consumers regarding data collection and processing. American consumers are now more likely to expect clear and concise explanations of how their data will be used and who will have access to it.
3. Consent as a Priority: The concept of informed consent has become central in consumers’ minds. They expect businesses to seek their permission before collecting and processing their data, and they want the option to easily withdraw consent if they choose to do so.
4. Trust in Businesses: GDPR and similar regulations have prompted consumers to evaluate the trustworthiness of the businesses they engage with. Companies that demonstrate a commitment to data protection and compliance with privacy regulations are more likely to earn the trust of consumers.
5. Data Breach Concerns: High-profile data breaches, such as those experienced by major corporations, have highlighted the vulnerability of personal data. As a result, consumers are more concerned about the security of their data and the measures businesses have in place to protect it.
6. Rights Awareness: GDPR’s focus on individual rights, such as the right to access, rectify, or erase personal data, has made consumers more aware of their data rights. They are increasingly willing to exercise these rights and expect businesses to facilitate the process.
7. Consumer Advocacy: Data privacy regulations have spurred the growth of consumer advocacy groups and organizations dedicated to protecting individual privacy rights. These groups can amplify consumer concerns and hold businesses accountable for data protection practices.
8. Impact on Brand Reputation: Businesses that are found to be non-compliant with data privacy regulations risk damage to their brand reputation. Consumers are more likely to support and engage with companies that prioritize data privacy.
9. Competitive Advantage: Demonstrating a strong commitment to data privacy can provide a competitive advantage. Companies that proactively communicate their data protection efforts can attract privacy-conscious consumers and gain an edge in the market.
GDPR and similar data privacy regulations have catalyzed a shift in consumer attitudes and expectations regarding data privacy in the United States. Consumers are more informed, empowered, and cautious about how their personal data is handled. American businesses that recognize and adapt to these changing dynamics by prioritizing data protection and transparency can build and maintain trust with their customers, ultimately strengthening their position in the market.
7. Business Strategies for Compliance
Compliance with GDPR and other data privacy regulations is not just a legal requirement; it’s a strategic imperative for American businesses operating in today’s data-driven landscape. Here are insights into strategies that American businesses can adopt to ensure compliance with GDPR and other data privacy regulations:
1. Understand Applicability: Start by determining whether your business falls under the scope of GDPR or other relevant data privacy regulations. If you process the personal data of individuals residing in jurisdictions with strict data protection laws, compliance is likely necessary.
2. Conduct Data Audits: Perform comprehensive data audits to identify what personal data your organization collects, processes, and stores. This includes data held by different departments, third-party vendors, and any international data transfers.
3. Appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO): If required by the regulation, designate a Data Protection Officer (DPO) responsible for overseeing data privacy efforts, ensuring compliance, and serving as a point of contact for data subjects and regulatory authorities.
4. Implement Privacy by Design: Incorporate data privacy considerations into the design of new products, services, and systems from the outset. This ensures that data protection is integral to your business operations.
5. Data Minimization: Collect and retain only the data that is necessary for the intended purpose. Avoid over-collection of data, which can increase compliance complexity.
6. Enhance Security Measures: Invest in robust data security measures to protect personal data from breaches and unauthorized access. Regularly update and patch software, use encryption, and conduct security training for employees.
7. Privacy Policies and Notices: Develop clear and transparent privacy policies and notices that inform individuals about data collection and processing practices. Ensure that these documents are easily accessible and written in plain language.
8. Consent Management: Implement mechanisms for obtaining and managing explicit consent from individuals for data processing activities. Allow individuals to withdraw consent easily.
9. Data Subject Rights: Establish procedures for handling data subject requests, including requests for access, rectification, deletion, and data portability. Ensure your organization can respond promptly and effectively to such requests.
10. Vendor and Third-Party Due Diligence: Vet and select third-party vendors and service providers that adhere to data privacy standards. Draft robust contracts with clear data protection provisions.
11. Data Breach Response Plans: Develop and test data breach response plans to ensure a swift and effective response in the event of a data breach. Compliance with data breach notification requirements is critical.
12. Regular Audits and Assessments: Conduct regular internal audits and data protection impact assessments (DPIAs) to identify and mitigate compliance risks. This proactive approach helps in maintaining compliance over time.
13. Employee Training: Train employees on data privacy best practices, regulatory requirements, and their roles in ensuring compliance. Create a culture of data protection awareness within the organization.
14. Stay Informed: Continuously monitor developments in data privacy regulations, both domestically and internationally. Be prepared to adapt your compliance strategies to evolving requirements.
15. Engage Legal and Compliance Experts: Consult legal and compliance experts with expertise in data privacy to ensure your strategies align with regulatory changes and best practices.
16. Plan for International Expansion: If your business plans to expand internationally, consider data protection regulations in target markets and adjust your compliance strategies accordingly.
Compliance with GDPR and other data privacy regulations is a multifaceted endeavor that requires a strategic and proactive approach. American businesses that prioritize data protection, transparency, and consumer trust will not only meet their legal obligations but also gain a competitive advantage in an increasingly privacy-conscious marketplace.
8. Future Implications
The landscape of data privacy regulations is continually evolving, and the future holds potential for significant developments in the United States. American businesses must anticipate these changes and prepare accordingly to stay compliant and competitive. Here’s a speculative glimpse into potential future developments in data privacy regulations in the US and how businesses should prepare for them:
– Federal Privacy Legislation: The United States currently lacks a comprehensive federal data privacy law. However, there is growing momentum for federal privacy legislation that could unify the patchwork of state laws and create a more consistent regulatory framework. Businesses should closely monitor legislative developments and adapt their compliance strategies accordingly.
– Stricter Enforcement: As data privacy becomes a more significant concern for consumers and policymakers, regulatory authorities may increase enforcement efforts. This could lead to more frequent audits, investigations, and penalties for non-compliance. Businesses should be proactive in their compliance efforts to mitigate these risks.
– Expanded Individual Rights: Future regulations may expand the rights of individuals over their personal data, granting them even greater control and transparency. Companies should be prepared to accommodate these rights and develop processes to handle data subject requests efficiently.
– Global Alignment: US businesses that operate internationally will need to navigate an increasingly complex global privacy landscape. They should continue to monitor and adapt to international regulations, ensuring they can transfer data lawfully and maintain compliance with diverse requirements.
– Emerging Technologies: New technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) bring unique data privacy challenges. Future regulations may address these challenges more comprehensively, and businesses should proactively address the privacy implications of emerging technologies.
– Cybersecurity Integration: Data privacy and cybersecurity are closely linked. Future regulations may require businesses to integrate data protection and cybersecurity efforts more closely. This means not only protecting data but also ensuring it remains confidential and secure.
– Data Ethics and Responsible AI: Ethical considerations surrounding data use and AI algorithms may lead to regulations promoting responsible data practices. Businesses should anticipate a heightened focus on data ethics and incorporate ethical guidelines into their data processing practices.
– Supply Chain Accountability: Regulatory scrutiny may extend to the data practices of supply chain partners and vendors. Businesses should assess the data handling practices of their partners and vendors to ensure they align with regulatory requirements.
– Consumer Education: Future regulations may emphasize the importance of educating consumers about their data rights and how their data is used. Businesses should consider transparency initiatives that empower consumers to make informed choices.
– Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs): DPIAs, which assess the impact of data processing on individuals’ privacy, may become a standard requirement. Companies should prepare to conduct DPIAs for relevant data processing activities.
The future of data privacy regulations in the United States is likely to bring both challenges and opportunities. American businesses should adopt a proactive approach, staying informed about legislative developments, investing in compliance, and fostering a culture of data privacy awareness. By doing so, they can not only meet regulatory obligations but also build trust with customers, protect their brand reputation, and remain agile in an evolving data privacy landscape.
9. Case Studies
To gain a deeper understanding of the real-world impact of GDPR compliance on businesses, let’s examine both success stories and challenges faced by companies in adapting to these regulations.
a. Successful GDPR Compliance:
– Microsoft: As a global technology giant, Microsoft faced significant GDPR compliance challenges due to its extensive operations in Europe and around the world. However, the company embraced GDPR as an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to data privacy. Microsoft invested in enhanced security measures, transparency initiatives, and tools to help businesses and individuals comply with GDPR. The company’s proactive approach not only ensured compliance but also strengthened its reputation as a trusted data custodian.
– SAP: The German multinational software corporation SAP was well-positioned to navigate GDPR due to its European origins. SAP leveraged its expertise to develop tools and solutions that assist its clients in meeting GDPR requirements. By offering comprehensive guidance and services, SAP not only ensured its own compliance but also provided value to its customer base.
b. Challenges in GDPR Compliance:
– Google: As one of the world’s largest data-driven companies, Google faced complex challenges in adapting to GDPR. The company was hit with a €50 million fine in the early days of GDPR for lack of transparency and inadequate consent mechanisms. Google’s vast data ecosystem and advertising services required significant adjustments to align with GDPR’s principles.
– Facebook: Another tech giant, Facebook, faced numerous GDPR-related challenges, including consent issues and data breaches. The company received scrutiny from European authorities and consumers for its data practices. GDPR’s stringent consent requirements and obligations to inform users about data processing had a substantial impact on Facebook’s operations.
These case studies illustrate the varying degrees of success and challenges that companies, regardless of their size, can face when adapting to GDPR compliance. Success stories highlight the benefits of proactive compliance efforts, including enhanced reputation and customer trust, while challenges underscore the complexities of adapting extensive data ecosystems to meet GDPR’s strict standards.
It’s important to note that GDPR compliance is an ongoing process, and businesses must continuously monitor, adapt, and improve their data protection practices to stay compliant and meet evolving regulatory expectations. These case studies provide valuable insights into the strategies and pitfalls that companies can encounter in their GDPR compliance journey.
10. Conclusion
In an era where data is the lifeblood of business operations, data privacy regulations like GDPR are shaping the future of US business in profound ways. This article has explored the multifaceted impact of GDPR and similar regulations on American companies and the broader landscape of data privacy. Let’s summarize the key takeaways and emphasize the importance of these regulations:
1. Protection of Personal Data: GDPR and similar regulations prioritize the protection of personal data, making it imperative for US businesses to safeguard the information they collect and process.
2. Global Relevance: The extraterritorial reach of GDPR means that American companies operating internationally, or even just serving European customers, must adhere to its standards.
3. Consumer Trust: Compliance with data privacy regulations is not only a legal obligation but also a way to build and maintain consumer trust. Businesses that prioritize data protection demonstrate their commitment to respecting customer privacy.
4. Compliance Challenges: Adapting to data privacy regulations comes with challenges, including understanding complex requirements, enhancing data security, and managing consent effectively.
5. Business Strategies: Successful compliance requires a strategic approach that includes data audits, transparency initiatives, security enhancements, and proactive employee training.
6. Future Implications: The future of data privacy regulations in the US may involve federal legislation, stricter enforcement, and expanded individual rights. Businesses should anticipate these changes and stay agile in their compliance efforts.
7. Case Studies: Real-world examples highlight the diverse experiences of businesses in their GDPR compliance journeys, showcasing both successful strategies and challenges faced.
Data privacy regulations are not merely legal obligations but essential drivers of change in the way American businesses operate and relate to their customers. As the data privacy landscape continues to evolve, businesses that prioritize compliance and data protection will not only avoid legal pitfalls but also thrive in a climate where consumer trust and ethical data practices are paramount. The future of US business is inextricably linked with the responsible and transparent handling of personal data, making data privacy regulations a fundamental cornerstone of success in the digital age.
