Responsible Data Policy for the Data Compass software

Responsible Data Policy for the Data Compass software

Last update: March 2020

IREX abides by Responsible Data Principles, which means that we apply ethical principles of transparency, fairness, and respect to how we treat data. This Responsible Data Policy applies to your use of IREX’s Data Compass software (“software”), located at https://datacompass.irex.org

This is an evolving policy that reflects IREX’s best effort to incorporate Responsible Data approaches into this software. Feedback or ideas for improvement are welcome at any time at cali@irex.org

Information we collect 

We collect no personal information about you unless you choose to provide it to us, with one exception: your e-mail address may be provided to IREX by someone else. In these cases, your e-mail address is only used for the express purpose of sharing the Data Compass software with you. 

We do not give, share, sell, or transfer any personal information to a third party without your permission. 

Forms within the software may ask some users to submit information such as name, e-mail address, employment, and other personally identifiable information. You are never required to share this information and may opt-out at any time by closing the software. 

Who can see the information we collect 

This software collects information from users through various forms and surveys. Who can see this information depends on the user: 

  • Users who respond to any survey forms can see their own submitted information at any time. 

  • Sometimes, users who respond to a survey can also see the submitted information of other users who respond to the same survey. In this case, users will be notified of this arrangement in advance of being asked to submit any information. 

  • Users who design the surveys can see all information submitted by all users who respond to those surveys. 

These visibility parameters only apply to information collected by and stored on the software. IREX cannot control how users use or share that information on other platforms (such as printing and sharing screenshots), or how users not employed by IREX behave with this information. 

The software also collects some information about users which are not submitted by users through forms and surveys. Users can control this information; see the section titled "Internet Protocol (IP) Address and Cookies" for more details. 

We (IREX) can access all information submitted by or collected on any user, but we will only do so for specific purposes related to: 

  • Responding to GDPR requests or other valid requests from users to delete or modify their information. 

  • Gathering and reporting aggregate statistics about the software’s use, in ways that preserve the privacy of individuals. 

  • Identifying and removing malicious actors or content. 

If any action is taken regarding information submitted by or collected about a user, the person taking that action will notify that user within 28 days of that action taking place. 

Where user information is stored 

Information provided by users of the software is stored in a modern hosting facility providing industry-standard facility and data protection. However, users should be aware that no data transmission over the internet is 100% secure. 

Information provided by users is retained for at least one year, unless otherwise governed by a relevant regulation or policy. 

Internet Protocol (IP) address and cookies 

IREX may track visitors’ computer IP addresses, while each user’s personal information remains completely anonymous. This can help us diagnose server problems, administer the software, and analyze user interest, which is information that we may use to enhance visitors’ experience. 

The software uses cookies, or pieces of information transferred to computers when browsing websites. This is standard practice, and your browser is probably set to accept cookies. These cookies help streamline your experience, for instance by remembering that you logged in previously to prepopulate some form fields. 

This software does not use any cookies related to advertising, including any cookies that could enable targeted advertising. 

If you would prefer not to receive cookies, you can opt out by changing your browser's settings. 

Deciding what information to share 

You, the user, are in control of what information you share using the software. Although forms may included required fields, you can opt out at any time by closing the software window. 

Some forms may invite users to share the e-mail addresses of other people. These users must have the consent of the e-mail address owners to share the e-mail addresses. 

Some users may invite users to submit information using the software using an automatic e-mail system. These users are responsible for ensuring that the email messages they send in connection with their surveys do not generate a number of spam complaints or bounce rates in excess of industry standards. These users may be banned from the software by IREX for violating these standards. 

Who to contact with questions or concerns 

Contact cali@irex.org with any concerns or questions about your use of this software.