In today’s data-driven world, managing user consent is a legal requirement and a trust-building necessity. But organizations vary widely in how they approach it, from manual tracking to fully automated systems. We ran a poll to find out how businesses are handling consent in 2025, and here’s what we discovered.
Poll Results Overview:
- Manual Tracking: Still used by small and medium businesses relying on spreadsheets or ad-hoc documentation.
- Automated CMP Systems: Growing adoption among enterprises for efficiency and accuracy.
- Hybrid Models: A combination of manual and automated tools, often during a transition period.
- No Clear Process: Some organizations are still unsure, leaving them exposed to compliance risks.
Key Takeaways:
- Automation is on the rise — Companies are investing in consent management platforms to reduce human error and stay audit-ready.
- Manual methods remain common — Particularly in industries slower to adopt digital transformation.
- Hybrid systems signal progress — Transitional approaches are often stepping stones to full automation.
- Lack of process is a red flag — Businesses without a clear system face higher legal and reputational risks.
Best Practices for Handling Consent:
- Centralize consent records in one secure location.
- Implement real-time updates for preference changes.
- Use geo-targeted consent banners for compliance with local laws.
- Provide clear opt-in/opt-out options and honor them promptly.
Whether your organization uses manual tracking, automation, or a hybrid approach, the goal is the same: maintain compliance, build trust, and protect user data. Moving towards automated, audit-ready systems is no longer optional, it’s the smart business choice for 2025.
