Community Reporting of Algorithmic System Harms (CRASH)
A tool to help prevent, report, and redress algorithmic harms.
The Challenge
Building Trust for Marginalized Communities to Report Algorithmic Harms
The Algorithmic Justice League (AJL) needed a tool that would center marginalized communities impacted by AI while remaining accessible, trauma-informed, and secure. Research revealed a core challenge: many users hesitated to report algorithmic harms due to concerns about data misuse and uncertainty over how their reports would be utilized.
The Solution
A User-Centric, Consent-Driven Platform for Reporting Algorithmic Harms
To address these challenges, I collaborated with AJL to design a platform that empowers users to report algorithmic harms confidently and securely. We implemented transparent consent processes so users clearly understood who would access their data and how it would be used. An intuitive privacy and consent interface allowed users to choose what information to share and with whom, giving them control and peace of mind when submitting reports.
Empowering Informed Choices Through Consent
The Consent Page allows users to define their data-sharing preferences, ensuring they feel in control and fully informed. This page guides users through clear, respectful options for sharing, letting them decide how their story is used and who can access it. We focused on making this experience transparent and empowering, so users can contribute with confidence and peace of mind.
Contextualizing Reports for Greater Impact
The Background Information page is designed to gather crucial context about users’ experiences, helping CRASH provide more nuanced insights into algorithmic harms. We wanted this page to feel accessible, purposeful, and respectful, as users share personal information that shapes how their report will be understood.
Providing Personal Context to Strengthen Impact
The Demographics page allows users to share personal details that bring deeper understanding to their experiences, enabling CRASH to assess how different groups are uniquely impacted by algorithmic harms. Designed with transparency and respect, this page makes clear that each demographic question is optional, allowing users to select only the details they’re comfortable sharing.
Empowering Design with the CRASH Design System
The Design System I created for CRASH supports a cohesive, accessible, and trauma-informed user experience across all touch points. This system centralizes the visual and interaction patterns needed to ensure the app feels intuitive and empathetic, helping users move smoothly through complex and sensitive topics.
