Yet Another DBA (8/22/2014)
As long as the data is scrubbed so that it doesnt break the data protection laws then a full dataset can be easier. But that always takes time and most developers want the unaltered data just in case the changes break their code...
There are tools. I have not used them myself but I have used the output and been very satisfied. It was realistic data (not directly but in terms of various lengths, NULLs, etc.) and ensured that I was compliant.
Gaz
-- Stop your grinnin' and drop your linen...they're everywhere!!!