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Tag Settings

Edit the settings on this page to configure tag governance in Catalog. Tag governance includes two distinct permission settings: who can create new tags and who can apply existing tags to assets.

Tag settings page with Tag Creation and Tag Assignment options

Tag Governance Settings​

Tag governance in Catalog includes two distinct permission settings:

  1. Tag Creation: Controls who can create new tags.
  2. Tag Assignment: Controls who can apply existing tags to assets.

These settings help prevent:

  • Uncontrolled tag sprawl
  • Unauthorized tagging of assets

1. Tag Creation​

Tag Creation Purpose​

Controls who can create new tag objects (for example, "Sensitive", "PII", and so on).

Tag Creation Access Options​

  • Admins and Stewards only (recommended for stricter governance)
  • Contributors, Stewards, and Admins (more open tagging environment)

How Tag Creation Works​

When enabled:

  • Users with appropriate permission can go to Governance > Tag Manager
  • Create new tags by providing a name and selecting a color

Example:

  • Navigate to Tag Manager
  • Click Create New Tag
  • Name it (for example, Sensitive-Test) and choose a color
  • Save

Tag Creation Best Practice​

Restrict tag creation to Admins and Stewards to avoid tag clutter and maintain a clean tag taxonomy.

2. Tag Assignment​

Tag Assignment Purpose​

Controls who can assign existing tags to assets (for example, tables, dashboards).

Tag Assignment Access Options​

  • Restricted: Only asset owners (must also be contributors) can assign tags
  • Open: Any contributor can assign tags to any asset

How Tag Assignment Works​

When enabled:

  • Users can assign tags if they meet the configured permission
  • Asset ownership is enforced only in the restricted mode

Tag Assignment Best Practice​

Use the restricted setting if:

  • You want to prevent contributors from tagging assets they do not own
  • You need tighter control over who labels data with governance tags

Governance Strategy Recommendations​

  • Avoid Tag Sprawl: Restrict tag creation to Admins or Stewards.
  • Maintain Tag Integrity: Restrict tag assignment if you are concerned about misuse or inconsistency.
  • Balance Access and Engagement: Avoid over-restricting contributors. Only enable limitations if actual governance issues are occurring.
Contribution Incentives

Contribution to data documentation and tagging is hard to incentivize. Only restrict permissions when there is a clear need.

Summary​

SettingPurposeRecommended For
Tag CreationWho can create new tagsLimit to Admins or Stewards to avoid sprawl
Tag AssignmentWho can assign tags to assetsRestrict if asset integrity is at risk

Use these controls to strike the right balance between collaboration and governance in your data environment.