The internet operates on a system of data collection. The amount of information input is directly related to the information we are able to output (access).

Let’s say for example…

A person provides personal data on a social media website. The site collects the data for other people to access and will store the data for future retrieval. In most instances, a brands perceived influence is directly related to the amount of information people want to access in relation to them.

With a brands influence hanging in the balance, let’s clarify some of the biggest misperceptions of the online data collection system…

Participation: This system does not require your permission to participate.

Dependent on the source: The input of information does not have to come from the source. While a brand may not choose to be part of the system, they are by default because of their connection to others.

Responsibility: It is beneficial to assign the responsibility of data input and management to someone with sufficient experience.

We should begin to look at our online environment as a data collection system, and understand the impact of our intentional involvement. Data will be collected for consumption, the question is, what information do we want to make available?