Definition
A Salesforce field or record access level that allows users to view data but not modify, create, or delete it, enforced through profiles, permission sets, field-level security, or sharing settings.
Real-World Example
Consider a scenario where a CRM manager at Summit Group is working with Read Only to centralize important business data in one place. With Read Only configured to match their workflow, the team can quickly find relevant information, track changes over time, and generate reports that drive strategic decisions.
Why Read Only Matters
Read Only is a Salesforce field or record access level that allows users to view data but not modify, create, or delete it, enforced through profiles, permission sets, field-level security, or sharing settings. Read-only access is common for audit and reference purposes: users need to see certain data but shouldn't change it. Read-only can apply at different levels of granularity: specific fields, specific objects, specific records, or the whole org.
Read-only access is part of the principle of least privilege. When users only need to view data, granting read-only access is safer than granting full access. Mature orgs use read-only liberally for view-only use cases while granting edit access only to users who need to make changes. Well-designed profiles and permission sets reflect this by layering access thoughtfully.
How Organizations Use Read Only
- •BrightEdge Solutions — Grants read-only access to executive dashboards so leadership can view data without accidentally changing anything.
- •NovaScale — Uses read-only field-level security on sensitive fields that users need to see but shouldn't edit.
- •Cobalt Ventures — Treats read-only as the default for any data users view but don't need to modify.