Project Title: Designing a Proof of Concept for Data Sensitivity Labeling and Data Loss Prevention with Microsoft Purview

Blackfoot Communications

Details
Project Title Designing a Proof of Concept for Data Sensitivity Labeling and Data Loss Prevention with Microsoft Purview
Project Topics Cybersecurity Data Management Information Technology (IT) Legal, Regulatory, Compliance
Skills & Expertise Communication Compliance Strategies Cybersecurity Frameworks Data Classification Data Governance Microsoft Purview Presentation skills Project Management Report writing Research and Analysis Risk Analysis Stakeholder Engagement Technical Problem-Solving Testing and Validation Workflow Development
Project Synopsis: Challenge/Opportunity
Blackfoot Communications is a leading provider of telecommunications services, known for its commitment to delivering reliable and innovative solutions to its customers. With a strong focus on customer satisfaction and technology-driven services, the company is well-positioned in the telecommunications market. However, like many organizations, Blackfoot Communications faces the challenge of managing and protecting sensitive data in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

The specific business challenge related to this project is the need to enhance data protection strategies by implementing robust data sensitivity labeling and data loss prevention measures. Currently, there may be gaps in how sensitive data is classified and protected, which can lead to potential data breaches and compliance issues. These challenges can have significant impacts on the business, including financial losses, reputational damage, and regulatory penalties.

This project addresses these challenges by providing an opportunity for students to design a proof of concept and advise on best practices for configuring data sensitivity labeling and DLP rules using Microsoft Purview. By working on this project, students can help Blackfoot Communications enhance its data protection measures, ensuring that sensitive information is adequately classified and protected across the organization.

The project will be divided into key phases, including needs assessment, solution design, build, and testing. Each phase will provide students with opportunities to apply their academic knowledge and develop practical skills in cybersecurity and data management. The project is ideal for students as it offers a chance to work on a real-world challenge, gain hands-on experience with leading technology, and develop critical skills that are highly relevant to their future careers.

Exploring this project is meaningful for students as it connects the strategic challenge of data protection to real-world career skills such as consulting, cybersecurity, and data management. By working on this project, students will gain insights into the importance of data governance and compliance in today’s business environment and develop the skills needed to address complex data protection challenges in their future careers.

Project Synopsis: Activities/Actions Required
  1. Conduct a needs assessment to understand Blackfoot Communications' current data protection strategies.
  2. Analyze existing data management and cybersecurity policies to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement.
  3. Collaborate with stakeholders to define project scope and objectives.
  4. Research best practices for data sensitivity labeling and data loss prevention using Microsoft Purview.
  5. Design a proof of concept for implementing data sensitivity labels across the organization.
  6. Develop data loss prevention rules and workflows to prevent unauthorized data access.
  7. Create a project plan outlining key milestones, deliverables, and timelines.
  8. Implement the proof of concept and test its effectiveness in a controlled test environment.
  9. Document findings and recommendations for enhancing data protection strategies.
  10. Present the final project deliverables to Blackfoot Communications and university faculty.
Project Synopsis: Expected Results
  • Students gain hands-on experience with Microsoft Purview for data governance and compliance.
  • Blackfoot Communications receives a comprehensive proof of concept for data sensitivity labeling and DLP.
  • Enhanced understanding of data protection strategies among students and stakeholders.
  • Improved data classification and protection measures for Blackfoot Communications.
  • Development of critical skills in cybersecurity and data management for students.
  • Successful application of formal project management methods and tools.
  • Increased awareness of data governance and compliance best practices.
  • Valuable experience in collaborating with industry partners on real-world projects.

Project Timeline

Touchpoints & Assignments Date Type

Project Teams Finalized

Sep 03 2026 Event

Learn More About CapSource Platform

Sep 04 2026 Action Item

CapSource Intro Session

Sep 08 2026 Event

Schedule Kickoff Meeting with Client

Sep 10 2026 Event

Projects Assigned

Sep 10 2026 Event

Submit Team Charter

Sep 15 2026 Action Item

Submit Status Report #1

Sep 15 2026 Action Item

Submit Signed NDA (if Required by Client)

Sep 15 2026 Action Item

Project Kickoff Self Assessment

Sep 15 2026 Evaluation

Submit Project Charter

Sep 29 2026 Action Item

Submit Status Report #2

Sep 29 2026 Action Item

Industry Mentor Temperature Check #1

Sep 29 2026 Evaluation

Student Temperature Check #1

Sep 29 2026 Evaluation

Submit Data Collection Plan

Oct 13 2026 Action Item

Submit Status Report #3

Oct 13 2026 Action Item

Student Temperature Check #2

Oct 27 2026 Evaluation

Submit System Requirements Documentation

Oct 27 2026 Action Item

Submit Status Report #4

Oct 27 2026 Action Item

Industry Mentor Temperature Check #2

Oct 27 2026 Evaluation

Submit Status Report #5

Nov 10 2026 Action Item

Student Temperature Check #3

Nov 10 2026 Evaluation

Industry Mentor Temperature Check #3

Nov 10 2026 Evaluation

Submit Design Document

Nov 10 2026 Action Item

Schedule Your Final Presentations with Client

Nov 10 2026 Action Item

Submit Status Report #6

Nov 24 2026 Event

Submit Link to Project Workbook

Dec 04 2026 Action Item

End of Project Self Reflection

Dec 04 2026 Evaluation

Project Review! Please Provide Us With Your Feedback!

Dec 04 2026 Evaluation

Share Your Experience!

Dec 08 2026 Action Item

Program Managers

Name Organization
Clayton Looney University of Montana

Teams

Team Name  Project Name  Team Members 
No Teams Available