Data scandals are now even finding their way into tabloid press coverage. The protection of sensitive data is being stylized into a confrontation of political systems – a perception of danger is developing that is becoming a serious threat to innovation and even the basic idea of data-based optimization in general. That goes as far as issues of health and prosperity – as the fundamental debate on the “Corona Warning App” has shown.

Initial situation

Communicating data processing is challenging. Data protection declarations hardly reach a readership, seals have not yet established themselves, and consumers feel overwhelmed. How can the discussion be made more objective, and how can real freedom of choice for consumers and customers be created based on informed decisions?

Objective

The goal of the project was and still is the development of a model for the interactive and multimedia presentation of sensitive data processing. The project addresses three guiding questions:

• Conceptually: Which basic structure can create the best possible transparency for consumers for the greatest possible variety of applications?
• Graphically: Which design and visual language is suitable?
• Technical: Which multimedia features are suitable for implementation on micro pages or smartphones?

The goal is to provide an open-source software for free use by companies. At the end of 2019, concern developed the project idea, which the Bavarian State Ministry for the Environment and Consumer Protection has funded since the beginning of 2020. In cooperation with the Zentrum Digitalisierung.Bayern and ingenit GmbH, concern is currently implementing the project.