Who is ultimately responsible for the creation and control of data?

The data owner is ultimately responsible for the creation and control of data. This role typically involves having the authority to manage and dictate how the data is used, accessed, and protected. The data owner determines who can access the data, what permissions should be granted, and the stipulations for its use, ensuring that the data aligns with organizational policies and compliance regulations.

In contrast, a data custodian is responsible for the technical aspects of data management, such as maintenance and security controls, but does not make decisions about the policy or use of the data itself. The system administrator may manage the systems that house the data and ensure operational functionality, but they also do not hold ultimate responsibility for the data's strategic management or control. The Cloud Service Provider (CSP) provides the infrastructure and services for storing and processing data but does not own the data or determine how it is managed or shared.

Consequently, the data owner's role encompasses both the accountability for the data's integrity and the strategic oversight that governs its handling and lifecycle.