The four components of digital corporate responsibility

Just as we are all looking at sustainability practices for the physical world, so we need to consider sustainable and ethical practices for the virtual world. Corporate digital responsibility (CDR) is a set of practices and behaviors that help an organization to use data and digital technologies in a way that is socially, economically, technically, and environmentally responsible. To understand this further, consider each aspect individually.

Social CDR

This includes ensuring data privacy protection for employees, customers, and other stakeholders. You should promote digital diversity and inclusion and pursue socially ethical practices.

Economic CDR

This includes using technology responsibly to replace jobs done by people. You must ensure that outsourcing work to the gig economy is done in a responsible way. You must share the economic benefits of digitization with society through things such as taxation.

Technical CDR

You must ensure the AI decision-making algorithms you are using are ethical. You should not produce digital technologies that harm society. You need to implement responsible cybersecurity protection and response practices. You must follow responsible data validation and disposal practices.

Environmental CDR

Just as with a physical commodity, you must follow responsible recycling practices for digital technologies. Extending the life span of technology is an environmentally responsible practice. You should consider responsible power consumption practices.

If your CDR planning is in a nascent stage, you can read more about forming a cohesive plan here.