Definition
In Salesforce Chatter, a file or post sharing setting where the content is shared only with specific, invited individuals rather than being visible to the entire organization or a public group.
Real-World Example
Consider a scenario where the system admin at BrightEdge Solutions is working with Private Sharing to control how users interact with Salesforce data and features. After configuring Private Sharing in the sandbox and validating it with key stakeholders, they roll it out to production. User adoption improves because the interface now matches how teams actually work.
Why Private Sharing Matters
In Salesforce Chatter, Private Sharing is a file or post sharing setting where the content is shared only with specific, invited individuals rather than being visible to the entire organization or a public group. Users explicitly select who can see private content, with no broader visibility. This contrasts with public posts (visible to the whole org) or group posts (visible to group members).
Private sharing is appropriate when content needs limited distribution: sensitive announcements, confidential documents, or personal communications. Mature Chatter usage distinguishes private from public content carefully, with private being the right choice when broader visibility would be inappropriate. For most everyday collaboration, public or group posts are typically the right pattern; private sharing is the exception for sensitive content.
How Organizations Use Private Sharing
- •NovaScale — Uses private sharing for sensitive HR communications that should reach specific individuals only.
- •BrightEdge Solutions — Trains users on when to use private sharing versus public or group sharing based on content sensitivity.
- •Cobalt Ventures — Treats private sharing as the exception for sensitive content rather than the default.