1. Bern University of Applied Sciences
  2. School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences HAFL
  3. Research
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  5. OUR Location Data
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OUR Location Data

This project investigates whether anonymizing location data before sharing, providing financial incentives as well as using the shared data for a laudable objective, sustainability, alleviates these concerns.

Factsheet

Situation

OUR Location Data represents a pioneering approach that is innovative because of multiple reasons: First, our innovative concept diverges from conventional practices that often resort to manipulation tactics, such as cognitive biases and dark design patterns (Waldman, 2020), which have drawn significant scrutiny from consumer organizations and government bodies (Fazlioglu, 2023; Jablonowska, 2020; Pant, 2023). Second, we innovate existing transparent consent forms, which lower users’ data sharing authorizations (Clement & Obar, 2016), by specifically investigating how transparent monetary incentives and using the data for a good cause can induce users to share their data. Third, we move beyond existing research by bringing in users at every stage of the process and explicitly accounting for the diversity of human beings. Last, there exist implementation opportunities for the interface also in other domains like healthcare services.

Course of action

Resistance is a common reaction to new technologies and can hinder their adoption (Heidenreich & Handrich, 2014). To understand the factors that lead users to accept or reject location data sharing, we rely on behavioral reasoning theory, which assumes that both reasons against and reasons for users' decisions are important (Claudy et al., 2015). In two pilot studies leading to the InnoSuisse project, we will (1) use a systematic literature review to examine the factors that lead users to accept (e.g., financial incentives) or reject (e.g., privacy violations) location data sharing and (2) manipulate incentives in an app for location data sharing in a field experiment with students to test the effects on user acceptance. In the InnoSuisse project with Posmo, we will (1) validate the experimental pilot on a larger scale with users and non-users, and (2) conduct iterative design and testing phases to implement the most promising incentives using an inclusive design research approach (Hehn et al., 2022).

Looking ahead

The project empowers users to consciously share their location data, with full awareness of data utilization and the benefits they receive, including financial compensation and altruistic utility. Those currently sharing their location data on Android or iOS devices will stand to gain from this project. Our commitment to inclusivity also ensures that the interface accommodates a broad spectrum of end-users. The project aligns well with Digital Engineering and Value Creation by highlighting the inherent value of participating in digital ecosystems. In the context of BFH's strategy, the project resonates with "Shaping and moving" as it shapes the future of data sharing consent interfaces. It also embodies "Responsible and enterprising" by providing an ethically sound data sharing tool that can be adopted by numerous organizations. Last, we also add to the strategic field sustainable development by enabling sharing of location data for the development of green mobility.

Contact

Prof. Dr. Gernot Pruschak

  • Dozent
  • +41 31 848 41 63
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This project contributes to the following SDGs

  • 9: Industry, innovation and infrastructure