About the artist
IF is a new design collective, London-based but working globally, proactively engaged with the evolution of the Internet. IF imagine, build and test radical tools that are capable of providing more democratic futures, unlocking the potential of emerging technologies by focusing on real user needs. Through these technologies and their civic frameworks, IF interrogates the issues of governance, ownership and control that sit behind products and services.
Work
Data Licences
2015
What if you could specify whether your data could be shared, and how? IF’s design intervention aims to give individuals ownership and control of their data through digital Data Licences. The licences let people decide for themselves whether their data is shared or not, who can access it, and what they can do with it. Unlike convoluted terms and conditions, data licences empower individuals; shifting them from passive data producers to active citizens with rights and powers. The prototype works on a blockchain, a transparent and secure data recording system. It is decentralised, which means the power of the technology is redistributed from one authority to many.