Citizens' dialog on mobility data

In mobility, a large amount of data is generated and distributed, for example on the position or condition of a vehicle. At the same time, data forms the basis for the organization of mobility services and the optimization of traffic flow. Society's preferences have so far been largely ignored.

For this reason, the Joint Innovation Hub of the Fraunhofer ISI conducted a citizens' dialog on mobility data in Ulm and Biberach an der Riß on behalf of the Ministry of Transport and the Office of the State Councillor in the State Ministry of Baden-Württemberg and with technical support from e-mobil BW. The following conclusions can be drawn from this:

• The participants had had both positive and negative experiences with mobility data: positive due to mobile information (e.g. on the shortest route) and processes (e.g. for booking), negative due to insufficient data quality and up-to-dateness as well as dependence on reception in the telecommunications network.
• The participants were surprised by the amount of data generated by today's mobility. They criticized the fact that the players who collect and process data do not provide information about data processing. From the citizens' point of view, companies can collect data. However, neutral trustees should store and distribute it.
• The protection of citizens' data is important to them. However, a tendency towards well-intentioned but overambitious data protection was expressed. They want transparency and self-determination in the use of data without being overwhelmed by a flood of information.
• The use of data for what they see as beneficial purposes, in particular to improve mobility services and traffic flow, is very important to citizens and increases their willingness to share. Sustainability is indirectly associated with improved traffic flow, which is very important to them.
• With regard to the contradictions and conflicts of interest examined, it was found that transparency about data use increases individual willingness to share data.
• Data was seen as a public good, but this does not rule out profit-oriented use.
• The added value of providing data must be recognizable for citizens. In addition to the feeling of happiness and the positive social connotation, this was cited by the participants as a reason for the greater willingness to share data on social media.
• The mobility needs of all social groups must also be taken into account as digitalization progresses. This also applies in particular to people living in rural and urban areas, who have common but also specific needs that need to be met.

The project will be completed by the end of 2024. The results from the citizen dialogs will be validated in the second half of 2024 through a representative population survey.