Visualization as a Tool to Enhance the Transparency of ICT Data Sharing in the Circular Economy

Abstract

This thesis delves into the development of a project that aims to boost the awareness and willingness of TU Delft's research staff to share laptop data, needed to promote the further adoption of the Circular Economy (CE) in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) domain. The project navigates the intricate landscape of data privacy challenges, particularly focusing on laptop hardware and organizational device management, with the ultimate goal of supporting AI processes such as predictive maintenance that require laptop-specific data, which can be categorized as personal data.
The project employs the Agile methodology and the Double Diamond Model to iteratively design user interfaces that visually articulate informed consent for ICT (i.e. laptop) data sharing for CE processes, such as laptop’s repair, reuse, and return. The main objective is to help cultivate a more sustainable ICT service in TU Delft by enhancing CE data sharing transparency and offering incentives for informed consent with the User Interface (UI) design. The design of the user interface aims to simplify the comprehension of consent for data sharing, bring more transparency, and raise awareness about data privacy. This approach is expected to motivate the research staff to actively participate in data sharing, thereby contributing to sustainability efforts within the organization. The thesis culminates with the presentation of key findings and potential avenues for future exploration and research, providing valuable insights into the interplay of data privacy, user experience, and sustainability within ICT services.