How can an external party access data if they are not directly invited to the Smartsheet project?

An external party can access data through a published dashboard link because this option allows them to view information without needing a Smartsheet account or an invitation to the project. Published dashboards are designed to share specific visualizations and data with a wider audience, providing an easy way for stakeholders or members outside the organization to engage with project information.

Published links can include a variety of content, such as charts, reports, and metrics that have been shared publicly or with specific permissions. This makes it practical for external parties to stay informed without the complexities of account creation or account management.

The other options involve methods that either require account access or don't effectively provide a way for external parties to engage with the information. Therefore, using a published dashboard link stands out as the most accessible and convenient option for external users to view the necessary data.