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1.2 The "Walled Garden" of Information (Openness vs. Secrecy)

Information architecture within the organization operates on a strictly bifurcated model: an internal ecosystem of unrestricted data flow protected by an external perimeter of absolute containment. This "Walled Garden" approach ensures that while internal engineering velocity is accelerated by radical transparency, client intellectual property remains hermetically sealed against external exposure. The security of client trade secrets—secrets — specifically Gerber files, firmware binaries, and bill of materials (BOM) data—data — is the primary existential constraint on operations.

1.2.1 Radical Transparency (Internal)

Operational efficiency relies on decentralized decision-making, which requires universal access to context. Therefore, the default classification for internal organizational data is Open.

  • Financial Health: Revenue, burn rate, and margin data are published to internal dashboards to enable cost-aware engineering decisions.
  • Error Rates: First Pass Yield (FPY) and Defect Per Million Opportunities (DPMO) metrics are broadcast live without sanitization. Hiding defect data is a violation of the "Just Culture" protocol.
  • Strategic Roadmap: Forward-looking technology stacks and capacity planning documents are accessible to allow personnel to align skill acquisition with future requirements.

Access is restricted only for Personnel Identifying Information (PII) and specific legal constraints (e.g., NDA-bound M&A activity).

1.2.2 Fortress Secrecy (External)

While internal data flows freely, client data traverses a "Zero-Trust" network segment. The IP Firewall mandates strict isolation of client assets.

The IP Firewall Protocols:

  • Gerber & ODB++ Files: Manufacturing data is stored on air-gapped or VLAN-segregated repositories accessible only to assigned project engineers and CAM operators. Transfer to personal devices or cloud storage outside the approved domain is grounds for immediate termination.
  • Firmware & Binaries: Customer firmware images and signing keys are treated as munitions-grade assets. They must be stored in encrypted vaults (HSM) and injected into devices only via secured production programmers.
  • Trade Secrets: Any unique process parameter (e.g., a custom reflow profile for a proprietary sensor) is classified as a client trade secret and must not be documented in shared knowledge bases without explicit redaction.

1.2.3 Zero-Trust Policy: Data Sanitization

The use of client data for "Process Improvement," "Case Studies," or "Marketing" is strictly regulated. A Zero-Trust policy applies to all raw data.

  • Mandatory Sanitization: Before any client data (PCB layouts, DFM reports, failure analysis photos) is shared outside the specific project team—team — even internally for training—training — it must be sanitized.
  • Sanitization Criteria:
    • Logos and Silk Screen: All vendor markings must be blurred or removed.
    • Part Numbers: MPNs must be redacted or replaced with generic placeholders.
    • Proprietary Geometries: Unique circuit traces or mechanical interlocks must be obscured.

1.2.4 Clean Desk & Screen Policy

Visual espionage poses a significant risk in both factory and remote environments. Physical and digital workspaces must remain neutral zones.

  • Factory Floor: Physical prints, travelers, and stencils must be returned to secure storage immediately after use. Leaving proprietary drawings on workbenches during breaks is prohibited.
  • Digital Workspaces:
    • Auto-Lock: Workstations must force an auto-lock after 5 minutes of inactivity.
    • Screen Discipline: Monitors must be positioned away from public sightlines (windows, hallways).
    • Remote Protocol: During video calls, the background must be blurred or neutral. Screen sharing must be limited to the specific application window, never the full desktop, to prevent inadvertent display of notification toasters or file names.

Final Checklist

Security Domain

Operational Mandate

Internal Access

Default to open access for financials, error rates, and roadmaps to enable decision velocity.

Client IP Storage

Gerber and firmware files must reside on segregated, access-controlled repositories only.

Data Usage

Use of client data for internal training or case studies is prohibited without strict sanitization (redaction).

Physical Security

"Clean Desk" policy is mandatory; no proprietary drawings or hardware left unattended.

Visual Security

Screens must auto-lock; remote screen sharing must be limited to specific application windows.


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