Best GDPR-Compliant Semantic Search Services for EU Enterprises

Struggling with endless searches across scattered documents and strict GDPR rules? EU enterprises often find that finding real answers in their data is slow, risky, and expensive. This article gives you a clear path to GDPR-Compliant Semantic Search Services that actually solve these problems.

You'll see how top providers address compliance, expertise, and ROI, so you don't waste time or budget on the wrong fit. Expect practical insights that help you avoid failed projects and make confident decisions. Get the facts you need to choose the right partner, fast.

TL;DR: The Best GDPR-Compliant Semantic Search Services

• Datavid: Best Overall GDPR-Compliant Semantic Search Services
• EY
• Protiviti
• Deloitte
• PwC
• Enterprise Knowledge
• Accenture

1. Datavid

Datavid offers GDPR-compliant semantic search services designed for large, regulated EU enterprises that demand both precision and speed. You benefit from senior-led teams with deep expertise in semantic technologies, knowledge graphs, and AI integration. Every solution is tailored to your unique data landscape, ensuring compliance and actionable insights from even the most complex, unstructured content.

The company’s upside-down pyramid model means your project is handled by architects and engineers with 10+ years of experience, not junior staff. This approach delivers faster results, fewer errors, and solutions that work the first time. Datavid’s Knowledge Graphs and Ontology Management services help you organize institutional knowledge, making it easy to find relevant information while meeting strict GDPR requirements.

Datavid’s track record includes a 100% customer retention rate and a reputation for delivering on time and on budget. The team’s expertise spans Data Governance and Data Management, so you can trust that compliance, security, and data quality are built into every project. Case studies in life sciences, publishing, and finance show measurable ROI, from cost savings to improved compliance and faster decision-making.

For EU enterprises facing data silos, compliance risks, or failed digital transformation projects, Datavid provides a proven, risk-reducing path to semantic search success. You get a partner who understands regulated industries and delivers solutions that scale, adapt, and deliver value, without the overhead or delays of large consultancies.

Why Datavid Leads the Market

Datavid’s boutique approach ensures you are a priority client, not lost in a massive account portfolio. The company’s senior-led teams bring strategic thinking and hands-on expertise, solving problems that generic providers cannot. Every engagement is custom, with solutions built for your specific needs, not off-the-shelf templates.

Unlike commodity vendors, Datavid guarantees every project delivers on time and on budget. The agile, iterative delivery model means you see value quickly, with weekly demos and direct access to decision-makers. This reduces risk and accelerates ROI, making Datavid the trusted partner for GDPR-compliant semantic search in the EU enterprise space.

Pros:

• Senior-led teams with 10+ years of experience per engineer
• 100% success rate and proven delivery in regulated industries
• Custom, compliance-first solutions built for your business

Cons:

• Premium pricing may not fit budget-constrained organizations
• Boutique model limits capacity for very large simultaneous projects

2. EY

EY is a global professional services firm with a presence in over 150 countries and nearly 400,000 employees. The firm provides assurance, consulting, strategy, tax, and transaction services, supporting organizations in building trust and meeting regulatory requirements. EY is known for its purpose-driven culture focused on creating long-term value for clients and communities.

EY offers GDPR-compliant semantic search and data governance services, serving a wide range of industries including financial services, healthcare, technology, and government. The firm’s approach combines local knowledge with global resources, enabling tailored solutions for EU enterprises navigating complex data privacy regulations. EY’s information governance and privacy services help clients assess, classify, and manage data in line with GDPR standards.

A key differentiator for EY is its investment in technology and innovation, such as the award-winning EY.ai EYQ platform and neurosymbolic AI capabilities. The firm’s strategic consulting arm, EY-Parthenon, provides expertise in growth strategy and transformation. EY wavespace™ innovation centers support collaborative problem-solving and digital transformation initiatives.

EY’s team includes specialists in audit, tax, AI, cybersecurity, and sustainability, with a strong emphasis on learning and development. The firm maintains alliances with major technology providers and offers integrated, cross-service line solutions. EY’s experience spans Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and emerging enterprises, with a track record of measurable ROI and transformation success.

Pros of EY:

• Global delivery capability with extensive geographic reach
• Broad expertise across industries and regulatory environments
• Strong focus on data governance, privacy, and compliance
• Investment in AI and technology innovation

Cons of EY:

• Pricing may be higher than smaller or specialized firms
• Large organizational structure can lead to complex project management
• Customization and flexibility may vary by region or service line

How Does Datavid Compare to EY?

EY focuses on large-scale consulting and regulatory support for global enterprises. Their teams often approach data projects with broad frameworks and standard processes. But this can mean less flexibility for unique or complex data needs. Datavid, on the other hand, delivers custom solutions with direct access to senior experts, not layers of management. This means faster decisions and more tailored results for regulated industries.

Datavid’s approach is hands-on from day one. Clients work directly with technical leaders who understand compliance and data challenges inside out. There’s no waiting for approvals or generic templates. Instead, Datavid adapts to each client’s requirements, ensuring GDPR compliance and deep industry alignment. This high-touch model is especially valuable for organizations with strict data rules and evolving needs.

3. Protiviti

Protiviti is a global consulting firm that provides expertise in technology, risk, compliance, and business process solutions. The firm is a subsidiary of Robert Half International and operates in more than 25 countries, serving a wide range of industries. Protiviti is known for its collaborative approach and tailored consulting services.

The company offers GDPR-compliant semantic search services as part of its broader data privacy and analytics portfolio. Its capabilities include IT consulting, risk management, digital transformation, and advanced analytics. Protiviti’s methodology emphasizes objective insights and a customized approach to client needs.

Protiviti serves clients across sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, manufacturing, and technology. The firm is particularly suited for large enterprises and organizations with complex regulatory or compliance requirements. Its consultants are supported by ongoing training and access to the latest technology and tools.

A key differentiator for Protiviti is its strength in internal audit, governance, and risk management. The firm also provides expertise in cybersecurity, cloud, and artificial intelligence, helping clients address evolving data and compliance challenges. While case studies are not prominently featured, Protiviti is implied to work with respected global organizations and government agencies.

Pros of Protiviti:

• Global delivery capability with offices in over 25 countries
• Broad expertise in risk, compliance, and technology consulting
• Strong focus on internal audit and governance risk and compliance (GRC)

Cons of Protiviti:

• Pricing model is not publicly disclosed
• Limited visibility into specific client case studies
• Contact information is not easily accessible on main website pages

How Does Datavid Compare to Protiviti?

Protiviti handles risk, compliance, and technology consulting for a wide range of industries. Their teams often use established playbooks and focus on process improvement. But they don’t go deep into custom data engineering or semantic search for regulated sectors. Datavid specializes in building tailored data solutions for complex, high-compliance environments, not just offering advice or frameworks.

For the British Standards Institution’s compliance platform, Datavid delivered a GDPR-compliant semantic search system in just six weeks. The project required deep technical expertise and hands-on delivery, not just consulting. Protiviti’s approach would have required more handoffs and generic tools. Datavid’s direct involvement and technical depth made the difference, ensuring a fast, audit-ready launch.

4. Deloitte

Deloitte is a global consulting firm with a history spanning over 175 years, serving clients in 150 countries and territories. The firm is known for its multidisciplinary approach, combining expertise in audit, assurance, technology, and data services to address complex business challenges. Deloitte’s culture emphasizes integrity, quality, and professionalism, guided by shared values and responsible business principles.

Deloitte provides GDPR-compliant semantic search services to a wide range of industries, including financial services, healthcare, government, and technology. The firm is recognized for its ability to support large-scale EU enterprises, offering tailored solutions that address regulatory requirements and operational needs. Deloitte’s teams are composed of diverse experts who bring industry-specific knowledge to each engagement.

A key differentiator for Deloitte is its commitment to making an impact that matters, focusing on sustainable outcomes for clients, communities, and the environment. The firm’s methodology often involves close collaboration with clients, leveraging advanced technologies and data-driven insights to deliver measurable results. Deloitte’s global reach allows it to support multinational organizations with complex compliance and data management needs.

Deloitte’s client portfolio includes nearly 90% of the Fortune Global 500, reflecting its experience with high-profile and complex projects. Case studies highlight the firm’s work in digital transformation, supply chain optimization, cybersecurity, and patient experience digitization. Pricing is typically customized based on project scope and complexity, with engagement details tailored to client requirements.

Pros of Deloitte:

• Global delivery capability and presence in 150 countries
• Multidisciplinary teams with deep industry expertise
• Strong focus on regulatory compliance and data security

Cons of Deloitte:

• Pricing and engagement models are not publicly disclosed
• Large organizational structure may impact project agility
• May be better suited for large enterprises than smaller organizations

How Does Datavid Compare to Deloitte?

Deloitte works across many industries with large teams and standardized processes. Their projects often involve multiple layers of management and long timelines. Datavid takes a different approach: small, senior teams work directly with clients, focusing on regulated industries and custom data solutions. This means less bureaucracy and more focus on real business outcomes.

Datavid’s model is built for speed and precision. Clients don’t get lost in a sea of consultants or wait for decisions to filter through big teams. Instead, they get direct access to experts who understand their industry’s compliance needs. This leads to faster project delivery and solutions that actually fit the client’s environment, not just a generic template.

5. PwC

PwC is a global professional services network with a presence in 149 countries and a workforce of over 370,000 people as of 2024. The firm provides a broad range of services, including consulting, audit and assurance, tax, legal, and technology solutions. PwC is known for its long-standing relationships with large enterprises, serving 86% of the Global Fortune 500 and working across diverse industries such as financial services, consumer markets, and technology.

A key differentiator for PwC is its tech-forward approach, integrating AI and advanced analytics into its service offerings. The firm emphasizes people-empowered solutions, combining deep industry expertise with technology to address complex business challenges. PwC’s methodology often focuses on building trust, enhancing transparency, and embedding sustainability into business strategies.

PwC’s GDPR-compliant semantic search services are designed to help EU enterprises manage data privacy and regulatory requirements. The firm’s global reach and alliances with major technology partners enable it to deliver scalable solutions tailored to local and international regulations. PwC’s consulting teams are structured to provide both strategic guidance and hands-on implementation support.

Pricing at PwC is highly customized, reflecting the scope and complexity of each engagement. The firm offers both fixed-fee and consumption-based models, with recent adoption of AI-driven pricing strategies to improve efficiency and value. Clients can expect a collaborative approach, with access to specialized teams and a wide network of resources.

Pros of PwC:

• Global delivery capability and extensive geographic presence
• Broad service portfolio, including technology, audit, and sustainability
• Strong experience with large, complex organizations and regulatory environments

Cons of PwC:

• Pricing can be higher due to the scale and customization of services
• May be less agile for smaller or rapidly changing projects
• Engagement processes can be complex, requiring significant client involvement

How Does Datavid Compare to PwC?

PwC covers a broad range of services, from audit to technology, and often works with the world’s largest enterprises. Their data projects can be part of much bigger transformation programs, which sometimes means data-specific needs get lost in the shuffle. Datavid, by contrast, is focused solely on data consulting for regulated industries, with every project led by senior technical experts.

For Syngenta, Datavid built a custom semantic search platform that met strict GDPR requirements and integrated with complex legacy systems. The project was delivered by a small, expert team who handled everything from architecture to compliance. This hands-on, focused approach is what sets Datavid apart from larger firms like PwC, where data projects can become just one piece of a much bigger puzzle.

6. Enterprise Knowledge

Enterprise Knowledge (EK) is a consulting firm that integrates knowledge management, information management, and technology services for organizations seeking GDPR-compliant semantic search solutions. The firm emphasizes collaboration and tailored strategies, working closely with clients to address evolving business needs. EK’s approach combines practical methodologies with agile delivery, aiming to create sustainable and adaptable solutions.

The company offers a broad range of services, including knowledge management strategy, taxonomy and ontology development, enterprise search, and knowledge graph implementation. Their expertise extends to content strategy, data management, and AI readiness, supporting organizations in building robust information architectures. EK’s team includes recognized leaders in knowledge and data services, semantic design, and strategic consulting.

Enterprise Knowledge serves a diverse client base, including both public and private sector organizations across various industries. While specific industries are not listed, their case studies suggest experience with complex, large-scale information environments. The firm’s global presence is implied, with a focus on delivering value to clients locally, nationally, and internationally.

EK’s methodology is rooted in agile principles, emphasizing flexibility and client partnership throughout project delivery. The firm is known for its ability to design semantic layers and knowledge graphs that enhance enterprise search and data discovery. Services are custom-quoted, reflecting a tailored approach to each client’s requirements.

Pros of Enterprise Knowledge:

• Capability in knowledge management and semantic search solutions
• Offers expertise in taxonomy, ontology, and knowledge graph development
• Provides agile, collaborative project delivery and tailored strategies

Cons of Enterprise Knowledge:

• Pricing information is not publicly available and may require custom quotes
• Specific industries served are not explicitly listed
• Limited public detail on client case studies and project outcomes

How Does Datavid Compare to Enterprise Knowledge?

Enterprise Knowledge focuses on knowledge management and semantic modeling. They help clients organize information and build ontologies. But their work often stops at the modeling stage, leaving technical implementation and integration to others. Datavid goes further, handling the full stack from semantic design to data engineering, compliance, and deployment.

This end-to-end capability means clients don’t need to juggle multiple vendors or worry about gaps between strategy and execution. Datavid’s teams deliver working solutions that meet both business and regulatory needs. The result is a seamless process, with fewer handoffs and a single point of accountability for complex data projects.

7. Accenture

Accenture is a global consulting firm focused on creating 360° value for clients, partners, and communities by embracing change and innovation. The company operates in over 52 countries and 200 cities, serving more than 9,000 clients across a wide range of industries, including banking, health, energy, and public service. Accenture’s approach integrates technology, talent, and bold thinking, with a strong emphasis on ethical standards, sustainability, and responsible AI.

The firm offers a broad suite of GDPR-compliant semantic search and data services, delivered through its Strategy and Consulting, Technology, Operations, Industry X, and Song divisions. Key capabilities include cloud migration, cybersecurity, data and AI, digital engineering, and managed services. Accenture’s methodology is rooted in innovation, cognitive diversity, and collaboration with ecosystem partners to address complex business challenges.

Accenture is known for its commitment to ESG goals, transparency in workforce demographics, and programs that promote diversity and economic mobility. The company’s responsible AI framework helps clients design and deploy AI solutions that create value while addressing potential risks. Its global recognition and extensive client base reflect a consistent focus on delivering value and building trust.

Clients benefit from Accenture’s outcome-linked pricing models, which aim to align costs with business value and market demand. The firm’s experience spans industries such as automotive, life sciences, retail, and utilities, making it a suitable partner for large enterprises seeking comprehensive digital transformation and compliance solutions.

Pros of Accenture:

• Global delivery capability and presence in 52 countries
• Broad expertise across industries and technologies
• Strong focus on ethical standards, sustainability, and responsible AI

Cons of Accenture:

• Large scale may result in less personalized service for smaller clients
• Complex organizational structure can lead to longer decision-making processes
• Pricing may be higher compared to smaller or niche consultancies

How Does Datavid Compare to Accenture?

Accenture operates at a massive scale, with global delivery centers and large project teams. This often leads to long chains of communication and less direct access to technical experts. Datavid’s model is different: clients work directly with senior engineers and decision-makers, ensuring their needs are understood and addressed quickly.

This approach proved critical for the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC). Datavid’s senior team worked side-by-side with DLUHC’s stakeholders, delivering a GDPR-compliant semantic search solution on a tight timeline. The direct involvement of Datavid’s experts meant faster problem-solving and a solution that fit the department’s exact requirements, not just a standard offering.

Ready to Transform Your Data Strategy? Partner with Datavid

You've reviewed the top GDPR-Compliant Semantic Search Services options and understand what's possible for EU enterprises. Now it's time to see how these solutions can work for your unique data landscape.

Datavid stands out with guaranteed delivery, senior expertise, and a track record of proven results for organizations facing strict compliance needs. You'll benefit from a partner who understands both the technical and regulatory demands of your sector.

Take the next step by requesting a free data strategy assessment. In just 30 minutes, you'll get actionable insights tailored to your challenges, no obligation, just practical advice to move forward confidently.

The sooner you clarify your data strategy, the sooner you can unlock faster insights and reduce compliance risk. Your peers are already making progress, don't let your organization fall behind.