Technological solutionism — the idea that tech developers can be trusted to innovate or code our way out of problems, and into prosperity — is on its way out. Individuals’ trust in tech and the companies who develop it has been eroded by innumerable failures. For businesses, it’s no longer acceptable to use technology without taking steps to ensure it’s trustworthy.
Companies Need to Prove They Can Be Trusted with Technology
Consumers have lost confidence in tech — and the companies who develop it. Here’s how organizations can restore digital trust.
July 21, 2023
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Summary.
Trust in technology — and the companies that use it — has taken a hit over the past few years. Transgressions against individuals’ privacy, calcification of corporate or individual biases into life-altering algorithms, constant threats that new tech erodes their ability to make a living, and beta testing unsecured or faulty connected devices or vehicles on an unsuspecting populace have encouraged healthy skepticism. To rebuild digital trust, companies need to pursue three broad goals: security and reliability, accountability and oversight, and inclusive, responsible, ethical use. Practically, this requires three steps: 1) define a vision for digital trust, 2) plan to act in more trustworthy ways, and 3) recruit people who will help earn trust.