Responsible Computing: A Holistic Approach for a Better Future

Source: https://hbr.org/2023/07/what-is-responsible-computing

In recent years, IBM has engaged with numerous Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) across various industries, revealing a growing awareness among business leaders that technology will be integral to the future enterprise. Yet, they also recognize the need for responsible computing as society demands alignment with ethical values. The societal impact of technology is now a top concern for these CTOs.

Technology’s impacts on businesses encompass unintended consequences, data risks, appropriateness of technological use, and environmental concerns. These issues are interconnected and demand a holistic approach. To address this, IBM has developed a Responsible Computing Framework, crafted in collaboration with CTOs. This framework focuses on six pillars: data centers, infrastructure, code, data, systems, and impact, offering key performance indicators (KPIs) for comparison.

Responsible Data Centers

The first pillar centers on the physical infrastructure for IT services, emphasizing the need for energy efficiency and reduced emissions. Many data centers run inefficiently, contributing to energy consumption concerns. To measure the impact, assess carbon usage effectiveness, technology carbon efficiency, and green energy coefficient. Evaluate efficiency footprint and water usage, seeking ways to improve energy sources and reduce water consumption.

Responsible Infrastructure

The second pillar focuses on reducing the environmental impact of computation, encompassing the entire computing ecosystem. Evaluate power usage, unit carbon footprint, and waste generation, and seek ways to optimize energy use, reduce waste, and improve recycling.

Responsible Code

The third pillar emphasizes code efficiency, examining its environmental, societal, and economic impact. Measure function point efficiency, carbon impact, security, code architecture, quality, and reliability. Consider how to improve efficiency, security, and reusability of code.

Responsible Data

The fourth pillar addresses privacy, transparency, data acquisition, and sharing. Implement the Responsible Data Maturity Model to assess how data is managed across 15 domains. Improve data governance, awareness, and responsiveness to data incidents.

Responsible Systems

The fifth pillar focuses on fair, accountable, and transparent systems. Assess your systems for bias and accountability, measuring outcomes, legal compliance, and liability. Promote transparency and ethics within your systems.

Responsible Impact

The final pillar considers the impact of technology on achieving sustainability goals. Align your computing with the UN’s 17 Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs) and measure the before-and-after impact of IT investments. Assess your role in reducing carbon impact and enabling social mobility, equality, and sustainability.

Maintaining responsible IT infrastructure is a significant challenge, but CSG Technologies, as a Managed Service Provider (MSP), can help your organization achieve these objectives. Our expertise and resources can assist you in implementing best practices for responsible computing, resulting in a multitude of benefits.

To take the first step towards a more responsible and ethical approach to IT infrastructure, reach out to CSG Technologies today. Let’s work together to create a more sustainable and responsible future. Contact CSG Technologies now to embark on your journey toward responsible computing.