Data Reuse Pitfalls: Granting Dataset Access via Workspace

Balancing between broad workspace permissions and more precise app/dataset permissions presents a challenging decision for teams managing data access. Workspace permissions might seem convenient, but they come with critical downsides that can seriously impact data security, governance, and team collaboration.

This blog explores the potential issues faced when relying on workspace permissions.

Lack of Data Security 

Depending solely on workspace permissions can compromise data security. With a broad audience granted access, sensitive data or works-in-progress becomes visible to unauthorized eyes, posing a risk of jeopardizing confidential information.

Potential for breakage

The more people access the workspace, the more potential for unintended changes and breakages in reports or datasets. With multiple people modifying the same resources, inconsistencies can creep in and lead to incorrect data. Unauthorized changes disrupt work in progress and hamper collaboration.

Data governance challenges

The lack of granular control makes governing data harder. Figuring out who can access what datasets, monitoring usage, and assigning clear ownership - becomes extremely difficult to manage with broad workspace permissions.

So, what can companies do to avoid these workspace permission pitfalls? 

Here are some best practices:

1. Use Active Directory security groups to manage dataset access efficiently and simplify the access request process.
2. Avoid creating separate security groups for every report - it's complicated and opaque.
3. Design reusable security groups to increase efficiency wherever possible.
4. Have a formal request process for access changes to ensure transparency.
5. Documentation remains essential to delegating security changes to a review group.

By prioritizing security, governance, and collaboration, organizations can ensure the integrity and confidentiality of their data while fostering a productive and efficient working environment.