The data classification model will be deployed for University of Helsinki staff in stages in autumn 2026. The model has already been deployed in early autumn at the Centre for Information Technology, University Services and Helsinki University Library.
Data classification helps ensure that University information is handled securely and consistently. The deployment applies to the Microsoft 365 environment and the tools used there, such as Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook. After the deployment, University staff will select the confidentiality classification that corresponds to the content of their M365 files and Outlook email messages.
Deployment will proceed unit by unit
Before deployment in each unit, the matter is be discussed by the unit’s management group and in a staff information session. In addition, all employees in the unit will be informed separately by email one week before the deployment.
Progress of the information classification deployment – preliminary schedule
| Date / preliminary date | Unit | Status |
| 24.8.2026 | Centre for Information Technology | In use |
| 1.9.2026 | University Services | In use |
| 16.9.2026 | Helsinki University Library | In use |
| 13.10.2026 | Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences | Deployment scheduled |
| 10 / 2026 | Faculty of Arts Faculty of Educational Sciences Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry Faculty of Medicine |
The exact deployment date has not yet been agreed. |
| 11–12 / 2026 | Faculty of Social Sciences Faculty of Science Faculty of Law Faculty of Pharmacy Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Faculty of Theology |
The exact deployment date has not yet been agreed. |
| 1–3 / 2027 | Helsinki Institute of Life Science Helsinki Collegium for Advanced Studies Language Centre Finnish Museum of Natural History National Library of Finland Swedish School of Social Science UniSport |
The deployment date is still open and will be agreed as soon as possible. |
Read more about data classification at the University:
Technical instructions on information classification in the M365 environment are available on the IT Helpdesk instructions website:
- Data classification at the University of Helsinki
- Data classification in email (Outlook)
- Data classification in M365 files
Tidigare meddelanden om informationsklassificeringsmodellen:
- Data classification as part of the University’s daily work (26.5.2026)
- The University pilots the paid version of Microsoft 365 Copilot and data classification beginning in spring 2026 (26.3.2026)
- The national data classification model will be gradually deployed at the University of Helsinki (4.2.2026)