Definition
Data sharing is the process of making digital information accessible to authorized users or systems. It involves the controlled exchange of data between different entities, applications, or databases, often through secure protocols or platforms. This practice is crucial for enabling collaboration, informed decision making, and operational efficiency across an organization. For instance, a healthcare provider might share anonymized patient data with researchers to study disease patterns. Data sharing differs from simple data access in that it implies a more deliberate and often reciprocal transfer of information. Understanding data sharing is fundamental for roles involving system design, security, and data governance, appearing in domains like cloud security and enterprise architecture.