Renew or migrate? Pros and cons of switching Consent Platforms

Whether you’re currently nearing the end of a contract with a dedicated Consent Management Platform provider or using a built-in tool from a CRM, like Salesforce, you might be considering whether now is the right time to change platforms. Same can be said for if your company built an in-house solution and you’re struggling to maintain it.

Compliance with key data privacy legislations will mean you’ve implemented something, but is it simply ticking the box or could there be more advanced solutions available that better suit your needs?

Before you sign to renew or start the process of searching for a new vendor, consider these pros and cons of switching Consent Management Platforms first…

Pros

1. Enhanced compliance: Switching to a more advanced consent management platform can help ensure compliance with the latest data privacy regulations, such as the US specific state laws.
2. Improved user experience: Newer platforms often offer better user interfaces and more customizable consent banners, which can lead to higher consent rates and a better overall user experience.
3. Scalability: Modern consent management platforms are designed to scale with your business, making it easier to handle increasing amounts of data and user interactions.
4. Integration capabilities: Advanced platforms offer better integration with other systems and applications, ensuring seamless data flow and more efficient operations.
5. Cost efficiency: While there might be an initial investment, switching to a more efficient platform can lead to long-term cost savings by reducing manual work and improving data management.

Read more: Why now is the right time to re-evaluate your Consent Management Platform

Cons

1. Implementation costs: Switching platforms can be expensive, involving costs related to purchasing the new platform, migrating data, and training staff. Alternatively, many vendors increase their prices come renewal, so you might actually save money by shopping around.
2. Data migration challenges: Migrating data from one platform to another can be complex and time-consuming, with potential risks of data loss or corruption. You’ll need to make sure you choose a provider that can automate this process and make it a seamless transition.
3. Learning curve: Employees using the system may need time to get accustomed to the new platform, which can temporarily affect productivity.
4. Integration issues: There might be challenges in integrating the new platform with existing systems, which could require additional development work. Most platforms offer integration services, but look for an API-first model to make sure that it integrates with everything, not just your data, for a more configurable set up.
5. Vendor lock-in: Switching to a new platform might lead to dependency on the new vendor, making future changes more difficult and potentially more costly. (Though this is likely the scenario you’re in right now!) If you choose a future-proof vendor, you won’t need to change again.