--- title: Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) Template & Training | The Privacy Pro description: Privacy Impact Assessment tools, training, and expert support for privacy teams. Explore The Privacy Pro PIA Template and customized PIA workshops. --- [Skip to content](https://theprivacypro.com/privacy-impact-assessment#main-content) [![The Privacy Pro Logo](https://theprivacypro.com/hs-fs/hubfs/TPP_Logo_Final.png?width=1780&height=582&name=TPP_Logo_Final.png)Homepage](https://theprivacypro.com?hsLang=en) - [Membership](https://theprivacypro.com/membership/professional?hsLang=en) - [Apply for Membership](https://theprivacypro.com/membership/pro-apply?hsLang=en) - [Events Calendar](https://theprivacypro.com/privacy-events?hsLang=en) - [Resource Library](https://theprivacypro.com/membership/resource-library?hsLang=en) - [Working Sessions](https://theprivacypro.com/membership/working-sessions?hsLang=en) - [In-Person Events](https://theprivacypro.com/membership/in-person-events?hsLang=en) - [Privacy Consulting](https://theprivacypro.com/privacy-consulting?hsLang=en) - [PIA Tools & Training](https://theprivacypro.com/privacy-impact-assessment) [Get in touch](https://theprivacypro.com/contact?hsLang=en) - [Membership](https://theprivacypro.com/membership/professional?hsLang=en) - [Apply for Membership](https://theprivacypro.com/membership/pro-apply?hsLang=en) - [Events Calendar](https://theprivacypro.com/privacy-events?hsLang=en) - [Resource Library](https://theprivacypro.com/membership/resource-library?hsLang=en) - [Working Sessions](https://theprivacypro.com/membership/working-sessions?hsLang=en) - [In-Person Events](https://theprivacypro.com/membership/in-person-events?hsLang=en) - [Privacy Consulting](https://theprivacypro.com/privacy-consulting?hsLang=en) - [PIA Tools & Training](https://theprivacypro.com/privacy-impact-assessment) [Get in touch](https://theprivacypro.com/contact?hsLang=en) # PRIVACY IMPACT ASSESSMENTS ### Keep it simple. Get it done. Maybe someday an expensive software solution will perform magic. Until then, use something that actually works. [Let's chat](https://cal.com/theprivacypro/newclient) [![Thumbnail of the cover of the brochure about Privacy Impact Assessments, opens a third party viewer (Heyzine). The same content is available as a PDF download.](https://theprivacypro.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/piabrochurecover.jpg?width=232&height=300&name=piabrochurecover.jpg "Thumbnail of the cover of the brochure about Privacy Impact Assessments, opens a third party viewer (Heyzine). The same content is available as a PDF download.")](https://heyzine.com/flip-book/dd58653c15.html) ![](https://theprivacypro.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/meeting2.png?width=450&height=450&name=meeting2.png) ## PIA APPROACH ### You need a decision-making tool, not a dashboard. Be a business-savvy privacy pro and spend time on what actually matters. #### Risk-based Not every PIA needs the same level of effort. We use a risk-based approach to focus attention where it matters most and make faster, more consistent decisions without wasting time on low-risk activities. #### Global The PIA is jurisdiction-agnostic, meaning it works (and is currently being used) across the US, Canada,the UK, and Europe. #### Proven The Privacy Pro PIA Template we teach and support is the one we developed for our clients. # PIA TEMPLATE TESTIMONIAL *Thank you to Nick, Lauren, and The Privacy Pro for a practical approach to PIAs! They provided clear context and tips to ensure participants don’t let PIAs become a “tick the box” exercise. In fact, they gave pathways to enable business teams and privacy teams to partner on reducing risk together – and even help reduce timelines to complete PIAs.* *And in comparison to the jargon-heavy legalese templates from many regulators and law firms, The Privacy Pro template is easily accessible for folks who don’t speak privacy-specific jargon.* # GET STARTED ## Ready to replace your PIA with one that works? The Privacy Pro PIA Template is used by companies across North America because it is simple and it works. ### PIA Template An intuitive Excel-based template with built in guidance and workflow [FAQ](https://theprivacypro.com/privacy-impact-assessment#faq-template) ### Practical Training Practical, case-based learning focused on what to do, not just what to know [Learn more](https://theprivacypro.com/privacy-impact-assessment#piatraining) ### Program Tools Procedure templates, workflows, and job aids to jump start your PIA program. [Learn more](https://theprivacypro.com/privacy-impact-assessment#piatoolkit) ### Expert Support Expert help when you’re stuck, overwhelmed, or need a second set of eyes [Learn more](https://theprivacypro.com/privacy-impact-assessment#piasupport) ## PIA TRAINING ### Our popular Hands-on PIA Workshop is the best way to get your whole team on the same page. The workshop provides experiential learning with comprehensive case studies such as a mobile app using location data, AI in employee hiring, the B2B SaaS marketing and sales process. We developed the case studies based on real-world scenarios. Details have been changed to protect the innocent, but we kept the fun stuff: incomplete information, competing priorities, and multiple correct answers! We can also work through a real-world example that you’re dealing with. By the end of the workshop, your team will have completed a PIA together.   [How we help with PIAs](https://heyzine.com/flip-book/dd58653c15.html) [Training FAQ](https://theprivacypro.com/privacy-impact-assessment#faq-training) ![](https://theprivacypro.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/training1.png?width=450&height=450&name=training1.png) ![](https://theprivacypro.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/tools2.png?width=450&height=450&name=tools2.png) ## PIA TOOLKIT ### A PIA is a process, not an activity. No matter which PIA template you use, it doesn't just magically run itself. You need to define the policy, workflow, and governance. #### Workflow Documented procedure for intake, data collection, triage, and escalation #### Roles and Responsibilities Who does what when it comes to initiating, completing, and reviewing the PIA #### User Training Guidance for business teams on how to complete the PIA (not how to become privacy experts) **LET'S GET STARTED** ##### Build real skills. Drive real decisions. We can help you become a business-savvy privacy pro. [Get in touch](https://theprivacypro.com/contact?hsLang=en) ## PIA EXPERT SUPPORT ### Sometimes you wish you had a privacy expert on speed dial - now you do. Our experienced consultants offer an objective, experienced perspective. Empower your team by giving them access to senior privacy experts who can help answer questions when you’re not available. We can provide a second set of eyes, constructive feedback, and guidance based on decades of experience. we also offer privacy coaching for individuals and teams who want to be more business-savvy privacy professionals. [How we help with PIAs](https://heyzine.com/flip-book/dd58653c15.html) [Support FAQ](https://theprivacypro.com/privacy-impact-assessment#faq-support) ![](https://theprivacypro.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/support2.png?width=450&height=450&name=support2.png) ## FAQ: The Privacy Pro PIA Template Frequently asked questions about The Privacy Pro PIA Template - ### How does The Privacy Pro PIA Template compare to OneTrust and TrustArc? The Privacy Pro PIA Template is a lightweight Excel alternative to privacy management platforms like OneTrust and TrustArc. It is faster to deploy and easier to adapt. Instead of a law-by-law checklist, it helps teams make informed decisions, document risks clearly, and fit assessments into existing business processes. - ### Is The Privacy Pro PIA Template software? No. The Privacy Pro PIA Template is an Excel workbook. There are no logins, no onboarding, and no configuration. Teams can start an assessment as soon as they open the file. - ### Is an Excel PIA template enough for a large organization? Yes, especially at the start. Large companies often use The Privacy Pro PIA Template to define their privacy workflows before investing in software. This lets teams test processes and agree on business needs before committing to a platform. - ### Can I use The Privacy Pro PIA Template alongside OneTrust or TrustArc? Yes. Many clients use The Privacy Pro PIA Template with their existing privacy software to fill gaps or simplify their process. It works on its own or alongside platforms like OneTrust and TrustArc, especially when those tools are too complex or slow to configure. - ### Which privacy laws does The Privacy Pro PIA Template support? The Privacy Pro PIA Template supports privacy impact assessments under Canadian, US, and European privacy laws. In Canada, these include the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), Quebec's Law 25, and the Alberta and British Columbia Personal Information Protection Acts (PIPA). In the US, it covers the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA), and other state privacy laws. It also supports the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the UK GDPR. - ### Which industries use The Privacy Pro PIA Template? Private sector organizations in technology, finance, retail, entertainment, e-commerce, and the nonprofit sector use The Privacy Pro PIA Template. It works in regulated and unregulated industries for any team that needs to identify privacy risks and comply with data protection laws. - ### Can I preview The Privacy Pro PIA Template before buying? Yes. Send a message or book a call and we will walk you through The Privacy Pro PIA Template. - ### How often is The Privacy Pro PIA Template updated? We update The Privacy Pro PIA Template when changes in privacy law call for it. New laws have led to added questions and clarifying guidance. The current version is v2.0. - ### What is The Privacy Pro PIA Template? The Privacy Pro PIA Template is an Excel-based tool for running privacy impact assessments. Privacy teams use it to identify, assess, and document privacy risks without buying or configuring privacy management software. Lauren Reid, founder of The Privacy Pro, built it from more than 20 years of privacy work. - ### What is a privacy impact assessment (PIA)? A privacy impact assessment (PIA) is a process for identifying and reducing privacy risks in a project, product, or system that handles personal information. Organizations use PIAs to make informed decisions about data use and to show compliance with privacy laws. - ### What is the difference between a PIA and a DPIA? A Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA) is a specific requirement under the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other laws based on it. A PIA is the broader term used in the US, Canada, and elsewhere. Both identify and reduce privacy risks. A DPIA must include specific elements set out in the GDPR and applies when processing is likely to result in a high risk to individuals. - ### When do I need to conduct a PIA? Conduct a PIA before you launch or change a project, product, or system that uses personal information. Common triggers include new technology, AI or automated decision-making, sensitive data, new vendors, and transfers of personal information outside the country. Some laws require one. Quebec's Law 25 requires a PIA for certain information system projects and before transferring personal information outside Quebec. Have anything else to ask? [Share your question with us](https://share.hsforms.com/1rwsAY-RLSomGw8dgFOh4lQ4ngsd). ## FAQ: PIA Training Frequently asked questions about The Privacy Pro PIA Training - ### When is the next public PIA training workshop? The Privacy Pro does not currently offer public, open-enrollment privacy impact assessment (PIA) training. We deliver The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop privately to organizations, so the content, examples, and discussion fit your team's challenges and privacy goals. - ### How long is The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop? The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop is a full-day training session. We deliver it virtually or onsite at your offices. - ### Can The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop be delivered in person? Yes. Most sessions are virtual, and we also deliver The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop onsite for clients who prefer it. In-person sessions help cross-functional teams align and work through complex issues together. - ### Does The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop qualify for IAPP CPE credits? Yes. Participants in The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop earn International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) continuing privacy education (CPE) credits. - ### What case studies are used in The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop? The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop uses case studies on location data in mobile apps, AI in hiring, and B2B sales workflows. Each reflects a real privacy challenge and helps teams work through uncertainty, competing priorities, and risk tradeoffs. We can share a brief overview before you book. - ### Who teaches The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop? Lauren Reid, founder and CEO of The Privacy Pro and creator of The Privacy Pro PIA Template, leads every session of The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop. She brings more than 20 years of global experience in privacy, compliance, and risk. - ### Does The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop include The Privacy Pro PIA Template? Not by default. The Privacy Pro PIA Template is an optional add-on to the workshop. If you want your team to keep using it after training, we will include a quote with licensing and customization options. - ### Can vendors, consultants, or outside counsel attend The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop? Usually not, though we consider exceptions. The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop is designed for internal teams, including long-term contractors, so people can speak openly about privacy risk and decisions. If you want to include a trusted third party, let us know. - ### Is The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop suitable for beginners? Yes. The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop is designed for privacy professionals at every level. A basic understanding of principles like data minimization, purpose limitation, or lawful basis helps, and we adapt the training to your team. Sessions are practical, hands-on, and built on real privacy risk scenarios. - ### What is The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop? The Privacy Pro PIA Workshop is a full-day privacy impact assessment training for in-house privacy, legal, security, and product teams. It teaches teams how to run PIAs that support real business decisions, using case studies and hands-on exercises. Have anything else to ask? [Share your question with us](https://share.hsforms.com/1rwsAY-RLSomGw8dgFOh4lQ4ngsd). ## FAQ: PIA Expert Support Frequently Asked Questions about the Expert Support for PIAs - ### What is The Privacy Pro expert support? The Privacy Pro expert support gives privacy teams direct access to Lauren Reid, founder of The Privacy Pro, for advice on privacy programs, PIAs, and day-to-day privacy decisions. Clients buy support in blocks of hours and use them as needs come up. - ### How does expert privacy support from The Privacy Pro work? Clients buy expert support from The Privacy Pro in blocks of hours. You use the hours for one-on-one sessions with Lauren Reid on the privacy questions your team is working through. - ### What can I use The Privacy Pro expert support hours for? Any privacy issue, including topics beyond PIAs. At our first meeting, we plan how to get the most value from your expert support hours. - ### Do I need The Privacy Pro PIA Template to get expert privacy support? No. The Privacy Pro PIA Template helps frame the conversation, but your context matters most. Expert support is available whether or not you use the template. - ### Does The Privacy Pro work with companies in Canada and the US? Yes. The Privacy Pro works with organizations across Canada and the US. Lauren Reid brings more than 20 years of experience with Canadian and US privacy laws. - ### Does The Privacy Pro offer privacy coaching for individuals? Yes. The Privacy Pro coaches privacy leaders who want to support their teams and early- to mid-career privacy professionals building their skills. - ### Does The Privacy Pro provide legal advice? No. The Privacy Pro provides privacy consulting. When you need legal advice, we can connect you with a trusted lawyer who knows the subject. Have anything else to ask? [Share your question with us](https://share.hsforms.com/1rwsAY-RLSomGw8dgFOh4lQ4ngsd). ## Membership - [Professional Membership](https://theprivacypro.com/membership?hsLang=en) - [Resource Library](https://theprivacypro.com/membership/resource-library?hsLang=en) - [Member Working Sessions](https://theprivacypro.com/membership/working-sessions?hsLang=en) - [In-Person Events](https://theprivacypro.com/membership/in-person-events?hsLang=en) - [Member Code of Conduct](https://theprivacypro.com/membership/terms?hsLang=en#member-code-of-conduct) - [Apply for Membership](https://theprivacypro.com/membership/pro-apply?hsLang=en) ## Services - [Privacy Consulting](https://theprivacypro.com/en/consulting?hsLang=en) - [PIA Training & Tools](https://theprivacypro.com/pia?hsLang=en) ## About - [About The Privacy Pro](https://theprivacypro.com/en/about?hsLang=en) - [Events Calendar](https://theprivacypro.com/privacy-events?hsLang=en) - [Values](https://theprivacypro.com/en/about?hsLang=en#values) - [Contact](https://theprivacypro.com/en/contact?hsLang=en) - [Subscribe](https://theprivacypro.com/en/subscribe?hsLang=en) ## Subscribe [Privacy Notice](https://theprivacypro.com/privacy?hsLang=en) © 2026 The Privacy Pro LLC, All Rights Reserved.