Ethics-based auditing of automated decision-making systems: intervention points and policy implications

Abstract Organisations increasingly use automated decision-making systems (ADMS) to inform decisions that affect humans and their environment. While the of ADMS can improve accuracy efficiency processes, it is also coupled with ethical challenges. Unfortunately, governance mechanisms currently used oversee human often fail when applied ADMS. In previous work, we proposed ethics-based auditing (EBA)—that is, a structured process by which are assessed for consistency relevant principles or norms—can (a) help organisations verify claims about (b) provide decision-subjects justifications outputs produced this article, outline conditions under EBA procedures be feasible effective in practice. First, argue best understood as ‘soft’ yet ‘formal’ mechanism. This implies main responsibility auditors should spark deliberation at key intervention points throughout software development ensure there sufficient documentation respond potential inquiries. Second, frame AMDS parts larger sociotechnical demonstrate effective, must link span all levels organisational phases lifecycle. The function should, therefore, inform, formalise, assess, interlink existing structures. Finally, discuss policy implications our findings. To support emergence procedures, policymakers regulators could standardised reporting formats, facilitate knowledge exchange, guidance on how resolve normative tensions, create an independent body