What steps can you take to ensure transparency in decision support tools?

1 Choose the right tool

When selecting the right tool for your purpose, you should consider the type and quality of data used by the tool, the methods and algorithms employed, and the outputs and recommendations it provides. Assess potential risks and benefits that the tool could pose to you and other stakeholders, such as customers, employees, or society. Compare different tools to determine which one best suits your needs and expectations. Before making a final decision, review the documentation and reviews of the tool and consult with experts or peers if necessary.

2 Understand the tool

The second step is to gain a thorough understanding of how the tool works, its inputs and outputs, and their relation to your goals and criteria. Additionally, you should learn about the tool's logic and reasoning, as well as its limitations and assumptions, and their effect on its performance and reliability. It’s also important to consider the ethical and legal implications of the tool to ensure it complies with relevant standards and regulations. To gain this knowledge, you should ask questions, seek clarifications, and request demonstrations of the tool. Additionally, reading the user manual, terms and conditions, and privacy policy can be beneficial.

3 Use the tool wisely

The third step is to use the tool wisely and responsibly, such as by using it as a support, not a substitute, for your own judgment and expertise. You should also use it in a suitable and appropriate manner, with caution and critical thinking, honesty and integrity, and accountability and transparency. Be sure to monitor and evaluate the tool regularly, reporting any problems or feedback to the developers or providers of the tool. Furthermore, you should update and upgrade the tool as needed, keeping up with new features and improvements.

4 Involve others

The fourth step in the process of using a tool is to involve others. This includes considering the interests and values of people affected by or involved in your decisions and actions, as well as the diversity and inclusion of those represented or consulted in the data and methods. Additionally, you should consider the participation and collaboration of people who can contribute to or benefit from the use and outcomes of the tool. And finally, feedback and dialogue should be sought from people who can provide or receive information, opinions, or suggestions about the tool. Engaging with others should be done respectfully and constructively, by listening to their views and concerns, sharing insights and experiences, and seeking their input and support.

5 Learn and improve

The fifth step is to learn and improve from the use of the tool. You should reflect on the results and outcomes of the tool, its strengths and weaknesses, the opportunities and challenges it presents, as well as the lessons and best practices it can provide. Collecting and analyzing data, evidence, and feedback about the tool will help you to identify what works well and what needs improvement. Sharing your learning and improvement with others is also key for successful use of the tool in other situations.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?