Understanding User Perceptions of Personal Data Stores: A Prototype-Driven Multi-Scenario Study

Abstract While Personal Data Stores (PDSs) aim to support personal data management and enable data portability across applications, user interest remains limited. This study explores the factors influencing user adoption and willingness to share data across four PDS use case scenarios—HR, Media, Finance, and Health—through an iterative research-through-design approach. The study combined a large-scale survey (n = 2,335), prototype development, expert reviews (n = 10), and user testing (n = 17). Findings reveal that although security concerns persist, participants responded positively to the PDS concept, particularly for use cases that reduce administrative burdens. Notably, users who engaged with the prototype reported higher intentions to use and greater willingness to share data than those evaluating written scenarios. These findings highlight the importance of tangible user experiences in shaping perceptions of PDSs. The study concludes with actionable recommendations and an illustrative prototype to inform effective user-centred PDS implementation. Graphical abstract