A Perspective Towards Using Aggregated Data in Research
Mohsen Bahrami · 2023
With the advent of big data and advancements in computational power, there has been a longstanding debate among researchers in the field of behavioural analytics regarding the superiority of individual-level datasets over aggregated data. This article delves into the advantages of utilizing aggregated data, with a specific focus on privacy protection, utility in analysing collective behaviour, and enhancing data sharing and reproducibility. Aggregating data offers a practical solution for safeguarding privacy by enabling the implementation of anonymization techniques that effectively mitigate privacy risks. By examining data at aggregated geographic levels, researchers can extract valuable insights into collective behaviour and customer trends, empowering businesses to make informed decisions that cater to a larger customer base. Furthermore, aggregated privacy-safe datasets facilitate data sharing and enhance reproducibility, overcoming the challenges associated with sharing individual-level data. Researchers can now share their findings while preserving privacy and ensuring the replicability of results, thereby making significant contributions to scientific knowledge and upholding the integrity of research. In summary, aggregated data strikes a balance between data accessibility and privacy preservation, providing valuable insights and fostering responsible research practices.