nFocus

Our group of researchers are taking on data ethics and investigating potential benefits for all stakeholders: data collectors, data storage providers, and data givers. Our focus is on the historically underserved populations served by nonprofits, who may not be aware of how the data they are giving in exchange for services is being stored and used. We intend to create a human centered framework for ethically collecting data.

We have partnered with nFocus, a provider and developer of a software suite for nonprofits to assist with customer relations and metrics reporting, to help the nonprofits use data in an ethical and responsible manner that protects the rights of those who they serve. There is an opportunity to create a “win-win-win” scenario between the nonprofits gaining data they need and the vulnerable community members they serve retaining agency over their data with nFocus as a steward of this relationship. Not only would this increase the social responsibility and brand image of the nonprofit and nFocus, it would protect the privacy and rights of those served, increasing their trust in their service providers.

This research and design project will be centered around investigating the relationships between vulnerable populations and their data, the nonprofits who serve them and collect their data, and the companies who provide data storage solutions. We will conducting a participatory design workshop with all stakeholders, aiming to establish a mutually beneficial relationship. This process will ultimately culminate in a service design blueprint that highlights an ethical framework for facilitating a relationship amongst all the stakeholders, while also providing guidelines for all parties involved.