Although the GDPR is widely known and accepted, it nonetheless poses challenges that deserve close attention. 

• Complex and ongoing compliance: the GDPR is a detailed and complex regulation, making compliance difficult and an ongoing effort for many organisations. 
• Increased responsibility: the GDPR emphasises the responsibility of organisations in the processing of personal data. Companies are required to implement appropriate security measures, keep records of data processing activities and document their internal policies and procedures.
• Explicit consent: The GDPR requires that individuals' consent to the processing of their personal data be free, specific, informed and unambiguous. This means that companies must obtain clear and explicit consent from data subjects, which can be difficult to obtain in some cases.
• International data transfer: the GDPR imposes strict restrictions on the transfer of personal data outside the European Union, unless adequate safeguards are implemented. This can pose challenges for organisations that operate worldwide and need to ensure that data transfers comply with legal requirements.
• Managing individuals' rights: The GDPR gives individuals certain rights, such as the right of access, rectification, erasure and portability of their personal data. Organisations must be able to manage these rights effectively and respond to requests within the required timeframes.
• Data breaches and notifications: The GDPR imposes an obligation on organisations to notify personal data breaches to the relevant data protection authority within 72 hours of becoming aware of them, where there is a high risk to the rights and freedoms of individuals. Managing data breaches effectively can be a challenge, particularly in terms of early detection, risk assessment and appropriate notification.

1. Benefit from expertise and experience – External service providers specialising in GDPR compliance have developed processes and gained experience from working with other clients from a variety of sectors and backgrounds. 
2. Maximise your time and effort savings – GDPR compliance can be a complex and time-consuming process to set up and maintain. Relying on the expertise of an external service provider allows you to quickly implement new policies or procedures, train staff, provide support for compliance audits and implement security measures that are proportionate to your sector and your needs. 
3. Have your processes independently assessed – Having an audit carried out by an external, independent service provider gives you an accurate, unbiased view of your organisation as a whole. They will be able to identify gaps and potential risks and suggest innovative solutions.