Password-protecting client reports: a delivery checklist

A strong password cannot correct a report sent to the wrong client. Secure delivery combines document checking, protection, recipient verification and separate password communication.

Before protection

  1. Confirm the client name and reporting period.
  2. Remove tracked changes, comments and hidden appendices where relevant.
  3. Export a final PDF and review it.
  4. Move only approved outputs into the delivery batch.

Keep draft and final folders clearly separated.

Protection and checking

Apply the agreed password rule and optional recipient watermark. Open the protected output, check the cover page and confirm that the password works.

After delivery

Record the delivery in the client file. Remove temporary working copies and password lists according to the organisation's retention policy.