Sources of Opacity in Computer Systems : Towards a Comprehensive Taxonomy

Title data

Mann, Sara ; Crook, Barnaby ; Kästner, Lena ; Schomäcker, Astrid ; Speith, Timo:
Sources of Opacity in Computer Systems : Towards a Comprehensive Taxonomy.
In: Schneider, Kurt ; Dalpiaz, Fabiano ; Horkoff, Jennifer (ed.): 2023 IEEE 31st International Requirements Engineering Conference Workshops (REW). - Piscataway, NJ, USA : IEEE , 2023 . - pp. 337-342
ISBN 979-8-3503-2691-8
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1109/REW57809.2023.00063

Project information

Abstract in another language

Modern computer systems are ubiquitous in contemporary life yet many of them remain opaque. This poses significant challenges in domains where desiderata such as fairness or accountability are crucial. We suggest that the best strategy for achieving system transparency varies depending on the specific source of opacity prevalent in a given context. Synthesizing and extending existing discussions, we propose a taxonomy consisting of eight sources of opacity that fall into three main categories: architectural, analytical, and socio-technical. For each source, we provide initial suggestions as to how to address the resulting opacity in practice. The taxonomy provides a starting point for requirements engineers and other practitioners to understand contextually prevalent sources of opacity, and to select or develop appropriate strategies for overcoming them.