Using and Exporting Data

Occasionally, you may wish to use data belonging to Rebels in your local or regional group for something outside the Action Network - for example, to call around to invite support for an upcoming action.

The basic rule for this is that it's always better to keep data within Action Network. Below we explain why that's the case, and suggest some ways to share Rebel data with your team without downloading it to your own computers.

Why does this matter?

Action Network is designed to keep Rebels' data secure. It uses a combination of security measures including data encryption, regular software updates, firewalls and scanning tools which makes it a much safer online space than a domestic computer.

Every time you download Rebels' data to your own computer, there's an increased risk that it can be accessed or leaked. For that reason, we'd strongly encourage you to follow some simple principles in using data outside Action Network:

Sharing data without downloading

In Action Network, build a report to identify the data you need. Remember to only include relevant fields.

On the lowest blue toolbar, select 'Report Access' and use the Email Invitation box to invite others to view the data within Action Network.

ReportShare.png

Be aware that anyone you invite will be able to download the report. If they're not already familiar with data protection guidance, encourage them to read through this advice or ask them not to download it.

Anyone you share a report with should also have signed the Volunteer Agreement.

When the duration of your campaign is over, consider removing other people's access in the same place.

If you need to download data

Occasionally you may decide there's no alternative but to download data from Action Network. If that's the case, you can download any report using the toolbar on the right hand side of the results.

Before you begin, make sure:

Ideally, keep the data as a cloud-based document, preferable our own XR Cloud on the Comms Hub (or Cryptpad) rather than sharing multiple copies of the same Excel file by email. You'll probably need to download one copy to your own computer first, and then upload it to the cloud to share with others.

Avoid storing data on any portable device such as a USB drive, which can be easily mislaid.

When you've finished using the data, make sure it's deleted from:

If you have any questions, please contact the Action Network Support Team on Mattermost and the Forum:

Action Network Support Reception channel: when you need something from the team Action Network Admins channel: when you have general questions about how to do something on Action Network Action Network Admins Reception Forum: for notices and longer discussions/conversations


Revision #3
Created 15 October 2021 17:06:34 by Bryony Bell
Updated 23 February 2022 21:47:04 by Kay