A case study to apply mobile technology into individual´s local community

A community within a shared geographical location is usually referred as a "local community". However, it is difficult to measure boundaries of local communities due to the complex of modern life. In this paper, we propose a new sociological term, as "Individual´s Local Community (ILC)", which addresses on the unique environment of each individual. ILC is designed as the smallest measurable unit crossover local communities. An android-based mobile application is developed to collect and demonstrate ILC in certain period. To extend the concept, one resident´s risk to be involved into crime incidents is evaluated by estimated values based on "stable" ILC and historical crime records. The evaluation system is developed as a mobile app, named as "Are You Safe". The application contains local crime maps and a GPS tracking component. Mathematical formulas are developed to evaluate the potential risk. Furthermore, a re-routing function is provided for "safer" ILC. The prototype of "Are You Safe" app is implemented and tested on a city in northwestern Pennsylvania, United States. We believe the ILC concept will enrich the study of Personal Big Data and enable us to study social science in a different level. Also the app will help residents to have a better understanding on their environment.