Request an Update with view only rights for some of the columns

BO'Neil

Is there a way to send update requests that include view only columns and edit columns? Example: I have a document that has 6 columns of data, I'm looking for columns 1-5 as read-only and column 6 is open for edit?

Thanks in advance for any options.

Mike Wilday

I don't believe that is possible. But it's a great idea!

I would recommend submitting a product enhancement request.

Andrée Starå

@BO'Neil

You're more than welcome!

Then you could use my workaround with the so-called helper columns. You include the helper columns for those that shouldn't be editable and the original columns for the editable ones.

Would that work?

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Mike Wilday

I don't believe that is possible. But it's a great idea!

I would recommend submitting a product enhancement request.

Andrée Starå

Hi @BO'Neil

If the columns are locked and the submitter isn't the owner or shared with the Admin level, it will work.

More info.

• Locked rows will be sent in an update request if the recipient has Editor-level sharing permissions or lower, but the recipient will not be able to make any edits.
• If the update request recipient is the sheet Owner or shared with Admin-level permissions, locked rows and columns will be editable from the update requests.

Another option could be to create a so-called helper column that shows the values using a formula, and then those columns won't be editable.

Make sense?

Would any of those options work/help?

I hope that helps!

Be safe and have a fantastic week!

Best,

Andrée Starå | Workflow Consultant / CEO @ WORK BOLD

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BO'Neil

Thanks for the option. but I'm not looking to lock the other columns. In my use case 90% of the time, all columns should be open for edit. it's the edge case where I want input from someone and they need view-only access to row's 1-5 (just so they get the full info set) and edit rights for column 6.

Andrée Starå

@BO'Neil

You're more than welcome!

Then you could use my workaround with the so-called helper columns. You include the helper columns for those that shouldn't be editable and the original columns for the editable ones.

Would that work?

✅Remember! Did my post(s) help or answer your question or solve your problem? Please help the Community by marking it as the accepted answer/helpful. It will make it easier for others to find a solution or help to answer!

BO'Neil

Andree, The helper option could be useful for sheets that must have this view only ability. But I was looking for a scalable option that could be used at time of need (vs. in-depth mindful building out helper columns) but again, thanks for the feedback. 😄