Whose Values Matter in Persuasive Writing Tools?

We examine Microsoft’s Inclusivity Suggestions (MSIS) tool in promoting inclusive persuasive writing. In doing so, we tackle the question of how best to adapt to the plurality of humanness in technology design. Following the naturalistic use of the tool in an educational context, we conducted a qualitative investigation with nine diverse students to evaluate the tool’s capabilities and limitations. Our findings reveal that while MSIS effectively identifies explicit gender biases, it struggles with implicit biases, code-switching, and multilingual inclusivity. Participants perceived the tool as useful in raising awareness but highlighted notable differences between performative use and genuine engagement with inclusive language. Based on these insights, we argue the tool has strong biases towards an American-centered conception of diversity. Drawing on earlier work on value-sensitive design, we propose design recommendations, and more broadly we critique whether designing for universal values is entirely realistic. We call for a more international perspective on the value tensions regarding diversity embedded into technology. Content warning: racist and sexist data.