MAIO023

Data Accessibility vs Security

Business ContextIntegrated organizations need employees and systems to access information across former company boundaries, but expanding access can increase unauthorized use, data leakage, and cybersecurity exposure. Restrictive security can protect information while preventing effective collaboration.

Mergers and Acquisitions TRIZ ResolutionProvide access according to role, purpose, sensitivity, and operational need rather than organizational affiliation alone. Use identity-based controls, least-privilege access, monitoring, and time-limited permissions to make necessary information available without broadly exposing data.

Applicable TRIZ Principles

Principle 1 – Segmentation differentiates access according to information and user requirements.

Principle 3 – Local Quality applies security controls according to sensitivity and risk.

Principle 23 – Feedback monitors access behavior and adjusts permissions when conditions change.

Expected Outcome

Greater useful data accessibility

Stronger information security

Better cross-company collaboration

Reduced unauthorized access

Decision IndicatorsEarly indicators that this contradiction is limiting M&A performance include:

Employees cannot access information required for integrated processes.

Broad access rights are granted to accelerate integration.

Legacy permissions remain after organizational roles change.

Sensitive information lacks differentiated access controls.

Security restrictions generate widespread manual workarounds.

Monitoring these indicators helps improve information accessibility while maintaining effective security.