In this blog, we will be looking into the nitty-gritty of social sustainability indicators in software engineering. You already know that social sustainability is about building software that’s fair, inclusive, and beneficial for everyone. But how do we actually measure this? How can we tell if a piece of software is socially sustainable? That’s where social sustainability indicators come into play. These indicators help us measure and understand the broader social impacts of the software we use and create. Let’s break down some key indicators that everyone should know about.
Equitable Access: Have you ever tried to use an app that just didn’t work on your older phone? Imagine trying to use a crucial health tracking app, but it’s only compatible with the latest smartphones and available exclusively in English. For elderly users with older devices or non-English speakers, accessing and benefiting from this app becomes challenging or even impossible. That’s an example of inequitable access. A socially sustainable software ensures that people from all walks of life—regardless of age, income, or location—can access and use the technology equally. It means designing software that works well on different devices and is available in multiple languages, and even considering internet access in remote or underserved communities. If software is only accessible to a small group of people, it can widen the digital divide, leaving behind those who may benefit the most from it.
Inclusivity and Representation: When I talk about inclusivity in software, I am referring to the idea that software should be designed with all users in mind. It’s about ensuring that the needs, values, and experiences of different user groups are considered during the design process. This includes everything from gender and cultural representation in apps to ensuring that people with disabilities can use the software easily. Features like screen readers, voice commands, and even thoughtful color choices can make a big difference in making software accessible to everyone. Software that excludes certain groups can perpetuate social inequalities. By designing inclusively, we help create a digital world that everyone can participate in. One way to achieve this is through diverse user testing and incorporating feedback from underrepresented groups.
User Well-being: Socially sustainable software should contribute positively to users’ well-being. This could mean designing social media platforms that encourage meaningful interactions rather than mindless scrolling, or developing educational apps that support mental health and learning. It’s about creating technology that enriches our lives, rather than adding stress or anxiety. Technology is a powerful tool that can either support well-being or contribute to burnout and stress. Thoughtful design can help users build healthier relationships with technology and, in turn, with each other.
Community Engagement: Software that supports social sustainability actively contributes to building and strengthening communities. This could be through platforms that enable local collaboration, social support networks, or tools that help people engage with social issues and community projects. The key is to ensure that these platforms empower users and foster positive, meaningful interactions. Technology can be a catalyst for social change. By creating spaces where communities can come together, share resources, and support each other, software can help solve local issues and build stronger social ties.
Ethical Data Practices, Protecting Privacy and Trust: These days where our data is more valuable than ever, how software companies handle our personal information is a huge part of social sustainability. This means being transparent about data collection, ensuring data security, using data responsibly, and protecting it from misuse. Socially sustainable software respects users’ privacy and seeks their consent, avoiding invasive data practices that exploit user information for profit. Misuse of personal data can lead to a loss of trust, identity theft, or even manipulation through targeted misinformation. Ethical data practices help build trust and protect users’ rights.
Integrating these indicators into software development is not just a box-ticking exercise. It’s about fundamentally rethinking how we build technology to ensure it benefits everyone. This means involving diverse stakeholders, continually assessing and refining our practices, and being willing to make changes that support social good, even when it’s not the easiest or most profitable path. So, whether you’re a developer, a designer, or just someone interested in the future of technology, let’s use these indicators to guide us in creating software that truly makes a positive difference.
Of course, these aren’t the only indicators to consider. Stay tuned for more insights in my upcoming blogs. And remember, the power to shape the future of software—and society—is in our hands.
Photo by Michael Burrows
