Publication
Requirements to Overcome the Transparency Uncertainty in Data Usage: A Smart Living focused Approach
Léon Dankert; Tobias Dreesbach; Valerie Carl; Aaron Witzki; Oliver Thomas
In: PACIS 2026 Proceedings. Pacific Asia Conference on Information Systems (PACIS-2026), Leapfrogging the Future with Artificial Intelligence, July 4-8, Jakartar, Indonesia, Association for Information Systems (AIS), 7/2026.
Abstract
Transparency enables users to understand what data is processed and for what purpose. It is particularly important in sensitive domains where data such as behaviour or personal preferences are processed and ensures responsible handling by service providers. In an increasingly data-driven world, it is an essential component in the development of services or applications. If a software solution considers transparency mechanisms, users can make informed decisions about their data collection and usage, which reduces their privacy concerns and fosters trust and acceptance. However, literature does not provide instructions to achieve transparency of data usage in the Smart Living domain. Based on the results of a literature review, legislation, a workshop, and an online-survey this paper identifies three Design Principles (DPs) for establishing transparency in the development of services and applications in the field of Smart Living. Considering the outlined DP, providers can establish transparency, foster trust, and ethical data management.