Reputation portability – quo vadis?

Abstract

Establishing and curating online reputation is becoming more important and inherent in day-to-day life. Until now, a plethora of research has focused on either a) the role of reputation within given (but enclosed) platform environments or b) the general idea of data portability between platforms. However, little scholarly attention has been paid to the question of cross-platform reputation portability. With this work, we introduce reputation portability as one aspect of a broader dialogue on digital identity management. We propose a comprehensive conceptual model, portraying the most important actors, mechanisms, data types, and external influences. By detailing these dimensions, we deduce the need for clear regulatory guidance and identify a large gap in empirical research. Where today’s leading platforms currently forgo implementing adequate mechanisms for users, Personal Information Management Systems (PIMS) and blockchain technology may provide means to factually establish reputation portability. To that end, we derive future scenarios, implications and critical assessments for platforms, PIMS, and governing bodies to inform the ongoing debate among researchers and practitioners.