Reputational Risk Associated with Big Data Research and Development: An Interdisciplinary Perspective

Cara Stitzlein, Simon Fielke, François Waldner and Todd Sanderson
Additional contact information
Cara Stitzlein: CSIRO Data61, Hobart 7005, Australia
Simon Fielke: CSIRO Land and Water, Dutton Park 4102, Australia
François Waldner: European Commission Joint Research Centre, 21027 Ispra, Italy
Todd Sanderson: Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research, Canberra 2601, Australia

Sustainability, 2021, vol. 13, issue 16, 1-13

Abstract: Many private and public actors are incentivized by the promises of big data technologies: digital tools underpinned by capabilities like artificial intelligence and machine learning. While many shared value propositions exist regarding what these technologies afford, public-facing concerns related to individual privacy, algorithm fairness, and the access to insights requires attention if the widespread use and subsequent value of these technologies are to be fully realized. Drawing from perspectives of data science, social science and technology acceptance, we present an interdisciplinary analysis that links these concerns with traditional research and development (R&D) activities. We suggest a reframing of the public R&D ‘brand’ that responds to legitimate concerns related to data collection, development, and the implementation of big data technologies. We offer as a case study Australian agriculture, which is currently undergoing such digitalization, and where concerns have been raised by landholders and the research community. With seemingly limitless possibilities, an updated account of responsible R&D in an increasingly digitalized world may accelerate the ways in which we might realize the benefits of big data and mitigate harmful social and environmental costs.

Keywords: digital transformation; research and development; reputational risk; interdisciplinary science; big data; innovation systems; digital agriculture; responsible innovation; responsible prediction (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (4)

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