Human-Data Interaction: The Human Face of the Data-Driven Society (1412.6159v2)

Abstract: The increasing generation and collection of personal data has created a complex ecosystem, often collaborative but sometimes combative, around companies and individuals engaging in the use of these data. We propose that the interactions between these agents warrants a new topic of study: Human-Data Interaction (HDI). In this paper we discuss how HDI sits at the intersection of various disciplines, including computer science, statistics, sociology, psychology and behavioural economics. We expose the challenges that HDI raises, organised into three core themes of legibility, agency and negotiability, and we present the HDI agenda to open up a dialogue amongst interested parties in the personal and big data ecosystems.

• The paper introduces HDI by defining its core themes of legibility, agency, and negotiability for enhanced ethical data practices.
• It demonstrates the need for transparent systems that enable users to control and understand how their data is used.
• The study calls for future research to integrate human-centric design with technological innovation in data-driven environments.

Insights into Human-Data Interaction: On the Role of Humans in the Data-Driven Society

The paper "Human-Data Interaction: The Human Face of the Data-Driven Society" by Mortier et al. explores the evolving interplay between individuals and the complex ecosystem formed by data generation and consumption. The authors propose Human-Data Interaction (HDI) as an emergent area of paper, distinct yet intersecting with various disciplines such as computer science, sociology, and economics. The paper is structured around three pivotal themes: legibility, agency, and negotiability, each elaborating on the challenges and considerations necessitating attention in this research domain.

Conceptual Framework of HDI

The authors posit HDI as a critical concern in the backdrop of ubiquitous computing and data proliferation. While existing HCI research primarily focuses on interactions between humans and computer interfaces, HDI shifts the focus to user interaction with data itself. This broader conceptualization compels an examination of existing work through the lenses of legibility, agency, and negotiability.

1. Legibility: This theme addresses the opacity of data systems to users and the necessity of making these systems transparent and comprehensible. The paper highlights the inadequacy of current systems, which often lack mechanisms analogous to physical-world indicators like CCTV signage. Legibility is imperative for users to understand what data is collected, by whom, and for what purposes. The authors argue for the development of data visualizations that exceed simple representation, enabling insights into the functioning of data-processing algorithms.
2. Agency: Beyond awareness, there is a need for users to exert control over their data. This involves mechanisms for informed consent, withdrawal, and correction of data inaccuracies. The notion of agency challenges conventional data practices by advocating for user-centric controls that empower individuals to influence how their data is used and to assert their rights within these systems. The authors cite emerging legal frameworks like the EU’s right to be forgotten, underscoring evolving regulatory precursors to enhanced user agency.
3. Negotiability: The paper introduces negotiability as a dynamic and multifaceted aspect of HDI, emphasizing the evolution of individual and societal interactions with data over time. Negotiability relates to the contextual nature of data and underscores the potential adaptability of data-sharing agreements in response to changing circumstances, jurisdictions, and societal norms. This theme acknowledges the influence of cultural and contextual variances on data interpretation and application.

Implications for Future Research and Practice

The authors underscore the need to treat HDI as a distinct topic, given its interdisciplinary nature and the pressing requirement to maintain human considerations at the core of data-driven ecosystems. The implications of this research span from theoretical explorations of data rights and privacy to practical implementations of systems that are ethically attuned to user needs.

The paper catalyzes dialogue on the ethical obligations of technology developers. It advocates for the creation of systems that provide clear and intentional user engagement rather than focusing solely on functional capabilities. Future work in HDI must address the challenge of ensuring technology that supports predictable and understandable outcomes from user interactions, aligning with the broader aspirations of calm technology.

In conclusion, "Human-Data Interaction: The Human Face of the Data-Driven Society" establishes a foundational discourse on the emerging challenges associated with pervasive data in society. By advancing legibility, agency, and negotiability as core components, this work invites further scholarly inquiry and innovation aimed at harmonizing human and data interactions, thus fostering trust and ethical data engagement in a ubiquitous computing landscape.