How different generations approach data sharing: Where the gap lies
Intergenerational communication can be difficult. This issue can be even harder when the transfer of important data/information is being done.
Research examining consumers’ comfort with sharing their date of birth with unfamiliar companies found that 21% of 18-24 year-olds feel comfortable doing so, compared to just 8% of those aged 45-54 (Lee)
When asked about sharing spending habits in exchange for potential benefits like money-saving opportunities, 38% of 18-24 year-olds were willing, while only 15% of those over 55 agreed
Rather than viewing data sharing primarily as a privacy risk, younger consumers often perceive it as a natural exchange that enhances their experiences... In contrast, older generations approach data sharing more cautiously. Having witnessed the evolution of privacy concerns over decades, they typically require stronger reassurances and clearer benefits before sharing personal information.
one crucial factor unites consumers of all ages: trust. This forms the foundation upon which all data sharing decisions rest. Research shows an overwhelming 94% of consumers across all age brackets identify trust as the decisive factor in whether they’ll share information. Further, 64% would readily share personal details with trusted organisations, compared to only 36% with unfamiliar companies.
As consumer expectations continue evolving and regulatory frameworks develop, organizations that combine sophisticated data capabilities with genuine respect for consumer preferences will build the trust necessary to succeed across all generations.
Trust, above anything is the main focus of this article and is a quality that extends across all generations. It is the connecting factor that allows for any good system for data sharing to run. It's easy to say but a lot harder to initiate, as there are major discrepancies between how comfortable younger people are with sharing info than older generations are. This gap however shifts when a trusted organization is who the information is going through.
However, the question remains, if trust is the deciding factor of whether a person shares or not, how can we, as a designer, make something that is trust worthy?
References
Lee. E, The generation gap: understanding data sharing attitudes across age groups. https://technative.io/the-generation-gap-understanding-data-sharing-attitudes-across-age-groups/
Megapixel8, (January 27, 2019). iStock. https://www.istockphoto.com/vector/laptop-and-download-file-gm1093459412-293443094?searchscope=image%2Cfilm
