Why transparency is the currency of the future digital world

By Degraft OSEI

Trust is the foundation of any economy, digital or otherwise. Without it, systems crumble, users disengage, and creators lose faith in the platforms they depend on. In today’s interconnected world, transparency is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity.

As social media platforms wield increasing influence over economies, cultures, and personal lives, transparency has become the currency of trust and the key to long-term sustainability.

But despite its importance, transparency often feels elusive in the digital world. Algorithms remain opaque, revenue models are vague, and data usage is poorly communicated. For creators, users, and brands alike, this lack of clarity erodes confidence and limits opportunities.

The Trust Deficit

Consider the issue of algorithms. These invisible gatekeepers determine what we see, what we don’t, and, for creators, whether their work succeeds or fails. Yet, few people outside of Silicon Valley truly understand how they work. A creator in Lagos may produce exceptional content, but without understanding how to optimize it for an algorithm designed in California, their chances of success diminish.

This opacity isn’t limited to content distribution. Revenue-sharing models on platforms like YouTube and Instagram are often criticized for their lack of transparency. Creators frequently struggle to understand how much they earn and why, leading to frustration and mistrust.

Data privacy is another major concern. Scandals like Cambridge Analytica have highlighted how user data can be exploited without consent, raising questions about the ethics of data collection and usage. Users want to know: How is my data being used? Who benefits from it? And, more importantly, how can I control it?

Lessons from the Offline World

My career has underscored the importance of transparency in building trust and driving success. At The Berkeley, I led sustainability initiatives that relied on clear communication and collaboration. By openly sharing goals and processes, we achieved a 95% recycling rate—an almost unheard-of milestone in luxury hospitality.

Similarly, during my time at OKBC Capital, I managed investments that prioritized transparency and fairness, ensuring all stakeholders understood how their contributions supported sustainable growth. These experiences taught me that transparency isn’t just about ethics—it’s a strategic advantage.

Platforms That Lead with Transparency

Some platforms are beginning to recognize the value of transparency. Luupli, for example, has embedded transparency into its core operations. By allowing creators to see exactly how their content is monetized and providing tools to track revenue in real time, Luupli sets a new standard for trust in the creator economy.

For instance, a graphic designer in Nairobi using Luupli can upload their work, set licensing terms, and monitor every transaction involving their content. This level of transparency not only empowers creators but also fosters a sense of accountability that benefits the entire ecosystem.

What Platforms Must Do

Transparency must become the default, not the exception. Here’s how platforms can lead the way:

Open Algorithms?Platforms should provide creators and users with insights into how algorithms work. This doesn’t mean revealing trade secrets but offering enough information to empower creators to optimize their content without resorting to guesswork.

Clear Revenue Models?Platforms must clearly communicate how earnings are calculated and distributed. Transparent revenue-sharing models build trust and ensure creators understand the value of their contributions.

Data Privacy and Control?Users should have full control over their data, including the ability to opt out of certain forms of data collection. Platforms must also disclose how data is used and who benefits from it.

Accessible Terms and Policies?Legal jargon has no place in user agreements. Policies should be written in plain language, ensuring all users can understand their rights and responsibilities.

The Role of Governments and Brands

Governments must establish regulatory frameworks that enforce transparency across platforms. Laws like the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) are a step in the right direction, but more global cooperation is needed to address the complexities of the digital world.

Brands also have a role to play. By demanding transparency from the platforms they advertise on, companies can push the industry toward greater accountability. Brands that align themselves with transparent platforms build trust with consumers, creating long-term value.

The Benefits of Transparency

Transparency isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s good business. Platforms that prioritize openness are more likely to retain users, attract creators, and build strong relationships with brands. Transparency fosters trust, and trust drives loyalty.

For creators, transparency means understanding their worth. A filmmaker in Kigali can track how their work generates revenue and negotiate better deals with brands. For users, it means knowing how their data is used and being able to make informed choices about their digital lives.

A Vision for the Future

Imagine a digital world where transparency is the norm. Algorithms are understandable, revenue models are equitable, and data privacy is sacrosanct. In this world, creators thrive, users feel empowered, and platforms earn trust through accountability.

This vision is not a distant dream—it’s a choice. Platforms, governments, and users must work together to create systems that prioritize transparency over profit at all costs.

A Call to Action

The digital economy is at a crossroads. Platforms can either continue to operate in the shadows, risking user trust and long-term viability, or embrace transparency and lead the industry into a more equitable future.

As someone who has worked across industries to design systems that empower individuals and foster trust, I believe in the power of transparency to transform the digital world. The tools are there—it’s time to use them.

Let’s ensure that transparency becomes the currency of the digital age. The stakes are high, but the rewards are higher. Together, we can build a future where trust is not just a value but a standard.

Degraft is the co-founder and chairman of Luupli, a revolutionary social media platform that empowers genuine self-expression and promotes authentic human connections. He has extensive experience in the hospitality, tourism, and technology sectors in the United Kingdom. He can be reached via [email protected]

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