Discover DTPR
The Problem
Our lives governed by invisible technologies, with little transparency about what data these systems are collecting, by whom, and for what purposes.
How can we trust them?
How can we be confident the technology is achieving its goal?
Our commutes to work are controlled by automated traffic lights. Our job applications are reviewed and filtered by AI decision makers. Our street lights use sensors and edge-computing to optimize electricity usage. Technology now has just as much an impact on how our public spaces function as roadways or parks. It seems natural that people should have a right to learn about and give feedback on its use.
If these systems are hidden from us, how can we be certain they’re achieving their goals? Whether seeking safety, sustainability, or accessibility, many are left asking: what are the benefits, the risks, and the trade-offs we're making?
We're building a communication standard that enables transparency, legibility, accountability, and control for people.
Our Proposal
The DTPR Taxonomy, Design Patterns and Prototypes
The core of the DTPR communication standard is a taxonomy of concepts around digital tech and data practices, and a set of icons to quickly and clearly communicate those concepts. These components can then expressed in a number of ways - from physical signage to digital channels for communication – which together, help visualize and convey how a digital system works.
Explore the Taxonomy
Helpful Places is a mission-driven company that helps organizations, and the communities they serve, harness the power of technology in ways that are transparent, inclusive, participatory, and in alignment with the community's goals. Supporting DTPR implementations is one of a variety of ways that we accomplish this.
Partners that have supported and enabled DTPR deployments in collaboration with Helpful Places
City of Calgary 
Florida Atlantic University 
Sidewalk Labs