How is data governance supported in Google Cloud?

Data governance in Google Cloud is effectively supported through tools and services designed to enhance data management, security, and compliance. The integration of Data Catalog, Identity and Access Management (IAM), and audit logs provides a comprehensive framework for governing data in a cloud environment.

Data Catalog facilitates the organization and discovery of data assets, allowing users to maintain an up-to-date inventory of their data. This enhances transparency and enables better data stewardship by making it easier to find, categorize, and understand the data being used within an organization.

IAM plays a critical role in data governance by allowing organizations to define and enforce access controls. It enables users to manage permissions to data resources, ensuring that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive data. This is crucial for maintaining data privacy and adhering to compliance regulations.

Audit logs are essential for tracking activities related to data access and modifications. They help organizations monitor who accessed data, what actions were taken, and when these actions occurred, providing a clear trail for compliance and accountability purposes.

Together, these tools support a robust data governance strategy, allowing organizations to manage data securely and effectively while meeting legal and regulatory requirements. The use of spreadsheets and manual tracking, or relying solely on third-party compliance services, would not provide the same level of integration, automation