Data directory environment variable for sharing only public data

[turnerm]

Currently the AA_DATA_REPO environment variable is set up to link to the top-level of the data directory containing both the public and private sub directories. We need a solution for setting up the environment in the case of using the public directory only. Some options:

1. Keep the data directory link and variable as is. Instruct users who only have access to public to manually place it in a directory called Data. Not a favoured solution because this makes setup complex for external users.
2. Keep the data directory link and variable as is. Change the permissions on the private directory to internal users only. Not clear if this is possible; needs to be investigated.
3. Have a separate environment variable for public andprivate.
4. Keep the data directory environment variable, but add another one that indicates whether it points to public or Data.

[mcarans]

Keeping public and private data clearly distinct is a good idea. Are these local directories or in Google Drive?

Of the options 3 seems cleanest and least likely to lead to confusion to me.