05 November 2009 | Author: D. Warburton Search Copywriter

Google Dashboard centralises personal data

The new Google Dashboard makes it easier for users to view and access their personal data, by allowing them to manage their accounts for various Google products from a single centralised hub.

Developed in Munich and Zurich, Google Dashboard can be accessed through the Settings tab of a user's Google account, and displays a user's personal profile above a list of Google products linked to their account, providing direct access to their Gmail, Google Docs, Google Reader and YouTube pages, among others.



In providing a convenient central location to manage settings and access accounts more easily, Google believes that its Dashboard is a step forward in empowering users by offering control over their personal data. The company's software engineer for security and privacy, Alma Whitten, stated: "We think of this as a great step, and we hope this helps shape the way the industry thinks about data transparency and control.

"The speed and scale of the growth of the internet has opened an important conversation about individuals' control and ownership of their data; we hope the Dashboard helps push forward the way we think about answering these questions."

Writing for The Guardian, Mercedes Bunz observes that Google Dashboard could represent a "transparent" attempt by the Mountain View giant to extend its dominance of the internet further, despite Google's claims that the Dashboard is designed to improve the user experience. Google previously granted users increased control over their personal data in September, when it was announced that Google products would become part of the Data Liberation Front, allowing users to export information from their accounts as they desire.

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