Situated data analysis: a new method for analysing encoded power relationships in social media platforms and apps

This paper proposes “situated data analysis” as a new method to examine how data is constructed, framed, and processed on digital platforms, illustrated through a case study of the Strava app. It builds on the concept of situated knowledge and addresses algorithmic bias, offering tools to analyze the partial and contextual nature of data. The method also explores the power dynamics between platforms, users, and society, revealing how data influences behavior and relationships in digital environments.