What is responsible computing?

The Harvard Business Review published an article about ‘Responsible Computing’ with a framework that integrates environmental challenges with social and governance.

The six pillars of responsible computing

1. Data centres

The global power capacity of data centres has grown by 43% in the last three years, and they are inefficient.

The average server runs at 12% to 18% capacity but draws 30% to 60% of maximum power. In just over a decade, The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts that data centre global energy use will jump from 1% of worldwide electricity demand to more than 20%.

2. Infrastructure

Reducing the environmental impact of computation, including hardware, software, and networks. Calculating the per-unit carbon footprint over the whole lifecycle.

Following on from this, they also ask:

• What technologies could you use that reduce power per unit?
• How can you get more bang for your buck? For example, through consolidation, rationalisation, or removing systems you don’t use?
• How about using your spare capacity for other purposes?
• How can you recycle or reuse more effectively?

3. Code

Make your code efficient and consider the environmental, societal, and economic impact of that code.

Your IT should be aligned with the vision of responsible computing.

4. Data

Thinking about the privacy, transparency, sharing, and acquisition of data. There are ethical, legal, and social responsibilities we should all be thinking about.

5. Systems

With AI tools now part of many business systems, it is essential to consider if your systems are fair, accountable, and transparent.

6. Impact

How can technology be used for good? The suggestion here is to consider the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Some impact will be general, but others can be more specific.

• Can you measure carbon impact per employee, per customer or SKU?

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