PRIVACY POLICY

1. Introduction

ThoughtSeed ("we", "our", or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy and complying with the Privacy Act 2020 (New Zealand). This policy outlines how we collect, use, and protect your personal information.

2. Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of information:

• Contact Information: Name, email address, phone number, and organisation details when you engage with our services
• Workshop Data: Responses, assessments, and feedback collected during workshops and consultations
• Communications: Messages and correspondence when you contact us or participate in facilitated sessions
• Technical Information: IP address, browser type, and access times (via standard web analytics)

3. How We Use Your Information

We use your information for the following purposes:

• To deliver consultancy, facilitation, and advisory services
• To conduct workshops, assessments, and strategic planning sessions
• To communicate with you about our services
• To generate reports and insights as part of our service delivery
• To improve our services and website functionality

4. Third-Party Services

We may use carefully selected third-party service providers to support our operations, including:

• Cloud hosting and storage providers
• Email and communication platforms
• AI-powered tools for analysis and facilitation (e.g., OpenAI GPT, Zapier)
• Analytics services to improve user experience

These providers are bound by confidentiality obligations and are only permitted to process your information as necessary to provide their services to us.

5. Data Storage and Security

We implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect your personal information against unauthorised access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. This includes:

• Secure data transmission using encryption (SSL/TLS)
• Access controls and authentication measures
• Regular security assessments and updates
• Staff training on data protection and privacy

Your data is stored securely and retained only for as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes outlined in this policy, or as required by law.

6. Your Rights Under the Privacy Act 2020

Under New Zealand's Privacy Act 2020, you have the following rights regarding your personal information:

• Access: You can request access to the personal information we hold about you
• Correction: You can request correction of any inaccurate or incomplete information
• Deletion: You can request deletion of your personal information in certain circumstances
• Complaints: You can lodge a complaint with the Privacy Commissioner if you believe your privacy has been breached

To exercise any of these rights, please contact us using the details provided below.

7. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties. We may share your information only in the following circumstances:

• With your explicit consent
• To deliver services you have requested
• To comply with legal obligations or court orders
• To protect our rights, property, or safety, or that of others
• In connection with a business transfer or merger (with appropriate safeguards)

8. Cookies and Tracking

Our website may use cookies and similar technologies to improve user experience and analyse website traffic. You can control cookie settings through your browser preferences.

9. Children's Privacy

Our services are not directed at children under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children without parental consent.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this privacy policy from time to time. The updated version will be posted on this page with a revised "Last updated" date. We encourage you to review this policy periodically.

11. Contact Us

If you have any questions about this privacy policy, wish to exercise your privacy rights, or have concerns about how we handle your personal information, please contact us:

You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the New Zealand Privacy Commissioner at www.privacy.org.nz