Summary Description of Your Idea
I propose a feature in Workfront that allows administrators to lock deliverables, objects, or specific project components from further edits after a defined cutoff time. This functionality would help teams, especially those managing time-sensitive deliverables, maintain consistency and prevent unauthorized or last-minute changes that could disrupt workflows. The goal is to ensure that once a project reaches a designated phase, certain users (e.g., Dentsu/PMs/Planner/CMs) can no longer make changes, while maintaining flexibility for those who still need access.
Why Is This Feature Important to You?
- Prevents disruptions: Last-minute edits from external teams can disrupt Creative Services' workflow, leading to inconsistencies in project deliverables.
- Ensures process integrity: Locking objects ensures that final versions remain untouched once a project moves to the next phase.
- Reduces manual oversight: Currently, permissions must be updated manually, requiring extra effort to monitor and enforce deadlines.
- Enhances collaboration: Allows teams to work freely within a defined timeframe but ensures stability after the cutoff date
How Would You Like the Feature to Work?
Configurable Locking Mechanism:
- Admins or project owners should have an option to set a lock date for specific deliverables, tasks, or documents.
- Past this date, the defined objects become read-only for designated users or teams.
- The ability to edit can still remain for admins or specific roles (e.g., Project Owners).
User-Specific Access Controls:
- Ability to lock objects for specific groups (e.g., Dentsu) while maintaining edit rights for internal teams.
- A "Locked State" should be configurable within user access settings.
Manual & Automated Locking:
- Admins can manually apply a lock at any time.
- Option to automate the lock based on project phases or due dates.
Visual Indicator for Locked Items:
- Clearly mark locked items with an icon or banner to indicate restricted access.
- Provide an error message when restricted users attempt to edit locked objects.
Audit Trail & Override Option:
- Maintain a log of when an item was locked and by whom.
- Allow authorized users (e.g., Creative Services leads) to override the lock in special cases.
Current Behavior
- There is no direct way to lock deliverables, tasks, or objects from edits after a certain date. Teams must manually adjust permissions for users after deadlines, which is time-consuming and prone to human error.
- Users with past access can continue making changes unless an admin removes their permissions.
- There is no visual indication of an object being locked or restricted, leading to confusion.
- While projects can be marked as Complete, this status change locks access for all users, rather than just a select group.
