Privacy and personalization

I N T E R A C T I O N S . A C M .O R G I HOW IT ALL STARTED December 2016, 10 months before the field trip Our identities are complemented by a virtual counterpart, consisting of diverse social network profiles and a data footprint most of us leave when we are online. This accumulation of personal information is used to tailor the content or functionality of Web pages to our preferences, interests, knowledge, and other personal traits. The concept behind this adaptation, or personalization, is simple: Messages, objects, and experiences that we attribute to our self affirm our identity and differentiate us from others. As a In September 2017, we had the chance to conduct a two-day field trip in Mumbai, India. This field trip provided us with a fresh perspective, inspiration, and great human encounters. With this article, we aim to provide insights and motivation, as well as details on planning and conducting an intercultural field trip for researchers considering a similar endeavor. We recount our experiences from the perspectives of both German and Indian participants, from the initial idea to planning and conducting the field trip in collaboration with locals. We also share our lessons and recommendations. Insights → In collaborative field research, very different perspectives might meet and challenge each other. → It takes close listening, open-mindedness, good preparation, and improvisation to set up a field trip in an unfamiliar context. Close collaboration with locals is invaluable. → Despite all preparation, be ready for surprises— and welcome them. PRIVACY AND PERSONALIZATION: THE STORY OF A CROSS-CULTURAL FIELD STUDY