A Socio-Technical Perspective on Data Usage Control

Data spaces are emerging as an approach for enabling autonomous and self-determined data sharing between organizations, building on trust and strengthening digital sovereignty in modern society. However, enforcing data usage conditions (policies) within these data spaces remains a challenge, as it requires managing social, technical, and organizational aspects simultaneously. This paper investigates the requirements, challenges, and solutions associated with usage control techniques in trust-based data sharing by applying the Socio-Technical Systems Theory. Based on 14 semi-structured expert interviews from various countries and industries, we identify critical factors influencing the implementation of data usage control. Our findings highlight the importance of building trust and social acceptance, developing robust technical enforcement mechanisms, and ensuring organizational compliance with evolving regulations. We propose a structured framework that integrates these socio-technical elements, offering practical guidance for both researchers and practitioners. Our study emphasizes the socio-technical balance needed for sustainable data sharing practices and provides empirical insights into real-world challenges and solutions. The framework serves as a practical tool to enhance decision-making and foster effective handling of data usage in diverse data sharing contexts.