Reality Mining
Andy Chau
What is Reality Mining?
Application of data-mining algorithms to
human relationships
 Collects information about human
behavior to create social network maps
 A tool that can provide insight into the
dynamics of individual and group
behavior
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How does it work?

Uses cell phone applications
to collect data on:
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Users' location
Proximity to other users
Communication behavior
Device usage behavior
How does it work? (Continued)
The collected data is sent to the service
provider and translated into social
network maps
 The social network maps combine a cell
phone's call logs with information about
its proximity to other people's devices
 The information is then continuously
collected by Bluetooth sensors in the cell
phones
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Social Network Map
What are its applications?
Accurately project the spread of diseases
 Improve personal health care
 Improved understanding of workplace
dynamics
 Help organizations build better
knowledge management systems

What are its limitations?
“Big-Brother Syndrome”
 Arbitrarily collects personal information
 Cell phones must be Bluetooth-enabled
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Any questions?
http://reality.media.mit.edu