Zpracovatel

Zpracovatel is a Czech noun derived from the verb zpracovat, meaning a person or entity that performs processing or handling of something. The core idea is that an actor carries out processing tasks, which can be informational, material, or procedural. The exact sense depends on the context.

In information technology and data processing, zpracovatel commonly denotes a program, software component, or computer system that executes data processing tasks, such as transformation, computation, or analysis. It can also refer to a device or workflow that converts input data into output results.

In industry and manufacturing, zpracovatel often designates a company that processes raw materials into finished products. Examples include meat processors, wood processors, or metal processors. Such enterprises may operate under contract to others (contract processing) or as part of a vertically integrated production chain.

In privacy and data protection, zpracovatel means a data processor—the entity that processes personal data on behalf of the data controller. The processor follows the controller’s instructions and bears responsibilities related to security, confidentiality, and compliance. This role is distinct from the data controller (správce) and is often defined in contractual terms, including the use of subprocessors and support for data subject rights.

Etymology and usage: the term comes from zpracovat and is common in legal, IT, and industrial language. Its precise meaning is tailored to the subject matter of the discussion.

See also: zpracování osobních údajů, správce údajů, zpracovatel dat, GDPR.