The Self Research Institute (SRI) goes beyond its name and its function as a non-profit focused on ensuring individuals have control over their own data but the lofty ambition to interpret, engage and adapt along with the information to improve lives. SRI stands as a transformative entity committed to reshaping how personal data is handled and utilized across multiple areas. This includes deciphering and recognizing significant trends in personal data behavior within sectors like healthcare, finance, and others.
Founded by Sterling Snead, a forward-thinking leader and a principal within the S&S Global Family Office, SRI is setting out on a journey to create a platform that combines scientific research and technological advancements to enable people to take charge of their personal information.
Envisioning a Future of Empowerment and Innovation
Under Snead’s guidance, the Self Research Institute is actively shaping a future where digital sovereignty is a reality for everyone. "We are at the forefront of a significant shift in how personal data is perceived and managed," Snead said. "Our work is about empowering individuals and ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to protect and leverage their digital identities."
This commitment to data sovereignty, privacy, and user empowerment not only addresses the immediate challenges of personal data management but also paves the way for a future where digital identities are secure, private, and under the control of the individual. With continued innovation and dedication, the Institute is poised to drive further advancements in digital identity solutions and set new benchmarks for privacy, security, and user autonomy in an increasingly digital world.
Up until now, the Institute has been primarily funded by the S&S Global Family Office. Yet, it has recently opened its doors to additional family offices that align with its mission, offering them the chance to financially support the progression of human empowerment through the management of personal data.
At the core of its mission are two transformative projects: SelfProfile™ the graphical interface for data and SelfFramework™, which together aim to establish a new paradigm for “personal informatics” – otherwise known as the data that encapsulates who someone is , from their health patterns to their personal identity.
Unveiling SelfProfile™: A New Era of Data Sovereignty
The SelfProfile™ is an advanced platform for individuals to consolidate, manage, and securely use their personal data. "Our vision with SelfProfile™ was to craft a tool that not only secures personal information against cyber threats but to also empower users to leverage their data in meaningful ways, such as understanding one’s biometric data through visualization of the data," said Snead during a recent interview with TechEchelon. This initiative harnesses OWL2 ontology language to structure decentralized digital identities and provides a dynamic and comprehensive approach to data management.
The SelfProfile™ also integrates seamlessly with other data providers and services through the Self Framework SDK to foster a connected ecosystem of data management and visualization of data patterns for diagnosis. One of its most notable features is the ability to link profiles and cater to families needing to share critical information securely. Moreover, it provides a guardianship feature that includes enhanced control for users requiring oversight, such as minors or individuals with limited decision-making capacity.
Snead emphasized the importance of privacy and interoperability in the SelfProfile™: "In designing SelfProfile™, privacy is paramount, so we implemented decentralized authentication methods that empower users with full control over their digital identities." The platform's commitment to international interoperability facilitates a seamless user experience across borders and platforms and embodies the Institute's global vision for personal data management.
Expanding the Digital Frontier with SelfFramework™
The SelfFramework™ complements SelfProfile™ by providing a robust infrastructure for managing decentralized digital identities (DID), and it aims to foster a secure and equitable digital landscape. "The framework is the backbone of our initiative; it offers developers and users alike a secure, privacy-preserving, and user-centric environment for managing digital identities," Snead said. This comprehensive solution is designed to encourage the adoption of decentralized identity solutions and lays the groundwork for a future where users can navigate the digital space with confidence and autonomy.
The Self Framework SDK enables easy integration of third-party applications with the Self Network that enhances the ecosystem's flexibility and utility. Moreover, the Self Network, ensures decentralized storage of personal data, which combines security with efficiency.
Beyond Data Management
The Self Research Institute's ambitions extend into other practical applications that address societal needs. For example, SelfPass is a blockchain-based health passport ecosystem that Snead said “is a testament to our dedication to privacy and security that ensures health data management respects the individual's right to privacy."
SafeWaters, another project, applies the Self Profile's principles to enhance the safety and rights of fishermen to create a supportive network for data sharing and protection. "Our efforts with SafeWaters highlight the tangible impact of our technology on improving livelihoods and promoting transparency," Snead added.
Finally, the Institute's collaboration with the open university in Entebbe, Uganda, shows its commitment to leveraging technology for educational advancement. By implementing Self Profile and AI technologies, Snead aims to provide an accessible and high-quality learning experience. "This initiative is a step towards our goal of revolutionizing education and making it more accessible and effective through technology," Snead explained.