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Retrieval-augmented generation

As explained in Authorization in Action

Retrieval-augmented generation is a technique that supplies a generative model with externally retrieved information when producing an output.

Retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) supplies a large language model with externally retrieved documents or records so responses are grounded in enterprise data. section 1.3.5 section 17.4

Financial records assistant

An assistant for financial analysts may retrieve organization-specific financial records. Each user should receive answers consistent only with records they are authorized to see. section 1.3.5

A safe RAG architecture separates retrieval from generation:

  • Determine which documents or records the user may access. section 17.4
  • Retrieve only authorized data from enterprise sources. section 17.4
  • Place the authorized results into the model’s context for response generation. section 17.4

Authorization must remain with a deterministic, explainable, auditable policy engine rather than the language model. Authorizing before retrieval prevents unauthorized data from entering the prompt and avoids dependence on prompt discipline or model behavior. section 17.0 section 17.4

How Authorization in Action covers it

How deep it goes
Explains RAG’s data flow and safety boundary, emphasizing authorization before retrieval rather than detailed implementation.
Examples
Uses a financial-records assistant and enterprise document or record retrieval to illustrate authorization-sensitive responses.
What you can do after
Operate/configure RAG systems by enforcing authorization before retrieval and sending only permitted data to the model.
How it connects
Connects large language models, enterprise data, authorization, policy engines, access control, and AI accountability.

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