Making API calls not through manager account

[Arshad Khan]

Hi All,

I have a question related to API usage. I did quite some search and found few related discussions and articles, but still don't have enough clarification, so decided to post my question.

I have an MCC acoount with developer token.

I want to make API calls to generate reports for my client's adwords account.

If I link through MCC account, I automatically get "Administrative" access to client's account, which is not acceptable to client. Even a standard access level is not acceptable as it can allow me to temper with campaigns etc.

So, how can I make API calls (read-only) and generate reports for my client without linking through MCC?

I have read about different access levels and thought it was possible through "Managed-readonly" or "Managed-standard" user roles, but I cannot figure out how to get those roles as the instructions are not clear. I have followed the instructions but only managed to gain read-only or standard access which is different from "Managed" roles.

Please help.

Thanks!

[Yin Niu]

Hello, 

If your clients are managed by your MCC, you will have administrator access to their accounts. But your clients can create MCC themselves and add you as Managed-read only user. 

Thanks,

Yin, AdWords API Team. 

[Arshad Khan]

Thank you for prompt response. I will check with my client about that option.

But assuming that my client's MCC will have the same functionality/features as my MCC, I don't see a "Managed-read only" option when trying to add user (image attached).

Also, as per https://support.google.com/adwords/answer/6139186#access I am not clear on what "invited by someone else" means. I have tried different permutations and combinations to invite user and lower their access level to check if they can be assigned "Managed-Read only" role, but haven't been successful so far.

Managed-Read only access
This access level is assigned when a manager account user lowers another user’s access level from “Administrative” or “Standard” to “Read only,” and that user was originally invited to the account by someone else.

Thank you again for your help in this matter!

[Yin Niu]

Hello, 

The only difference between "Managed-read only" and "Read only" user access level is that "Managed-read only" can browse linked accounts. If you only need to run reports, then "Read only" is enough.  I think "invited by someone else" means that the account owner can add other user with administrator access. This user can then invite other users. 

You can also post questions in AdWords forum on this topic.