Managing SharePoint Access Requests

By: Rob Fisch   |   Updated: 2010-02-18   |   Comments   |   Related: > SharePoint Administration

Problem

As SharePoint system administrator, I create all sites for users. This is true even when I turn over "Full Control" to a power user that will design and maintain the site, including setting up permissions. However, I still get the automated email messages from users that "request access" using the built-in access request form. Is there a way I can direct these email messages to go the power user in charge of the site?

Solution

Yes. In WSS2, the configuration was easily found in "Site Administration". It was called "Manage Access Requests".

In WSS3/MOSS2007, the configuration is the same, but the menu option is in a more obscure location. Follow the directions below to modify the requests.

Click "Site Actions", then "Site Settings".

Click "Advanced permissions".

Click "Access Requests".

Allowing user requests (through the automated form), is optional. Change the email address to the desired site administrator.

Notes:

• This configuration is for the entire site. There are no settings for individual libraries and lists. Access requests for all lists or libraries all go to the same person.
• The automated email sent to the site administrator contains a convenient link to 'grant' access to the resource (list or library). If you are using groups to manage permissions, you should not use the 'grant' link to manage the permission, though it can be helpful to see which resource the user is requesting access to. Consider, disabling automated access requests entirely, in favor of forcing the user to make a specific request (outside of the automated system). At the very least, be mindful that the automated request system is not aware of your grouping setup.

Next Steps

• Check out MSSQLTips.com for great information about Microsoft SQL Server.

About the author

Rob Fisch has worked with SQL Server since version 6.5 as a dba, developer, report writer and data warehouse designer.

This author pledges the content of this article is based on professional experience and not AI generated.

View all my tips