PotentialU-Starbucks Pilot Participation Agreement and Privacy Policy
July 14, 2025
July 14, 2025
July 14, 2025
Introduction and Pilot Overview
BY PARTICIPATING IN THIS PILOT PROGRAM, YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE READ, UNDERSTOOD, AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THIS AGREEMENT. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO THESE TERMS, DO NOT PARTICIPATE IN THE PILOT PROGRAM.
This Pilot Participation Agreement and Privacy Policy ("Agreement") governs your participation in the PotentialU Intelligent Operations Solution Hub pilot program ("Pilot") conducted in collaboration with Starbucks Hong Kong ("Starbucks HK"). This document explains the nature of the pilot, how we collect and use your data, your rights as a participant, and the legal framework governing this collaboration.
About PotentialU
PotentialU is an innovative technology company specializing in intelligent operations solutions for the retail and hospitality industry. Our mission is to empower frontline leaders with AI-driven insights and personalized guidance to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience. This pilot represents a collaborative effort to test and refine our Intelligent Operations Solution Hub specifically for Starbucks operations.
Pilot Objectives
The primary objective of this pilot is to evaluate the effectiveness of our AI-powered operations assistant, "Tobi," in supporting Starbucks leaders across various roles including District Managers, Store Managers, Assistant Store Managers, and Shift Supervisors. The pilot focuses on the challenge "Elevate & Accelerate: Transforming the Starbucks Experience" with specific emphasis on improving customer experience and optimizing Items per Labour Hour metrics.
Pilot Duration and Scope
This pilot program runs for four (4) weeks from July 14, 2025, to August 8, 2025. The pilot is limited to selected Starbucks Hong Kong locations and involves a carefully chosen group of participants representing different operational roles within the Starbucks hierarchy. The pilot is designed to test functionality, gather feedback, and measure impact in a controlled environment before potential broader deployment.
Pilot Nature and Limitations
Experimental Nature of the Pilot
IMPORTANT NOTICE: This is a pilot program designed to test and evaluate new technology solutions. As such, the services, features, and functionality provided during this pilot are experimental in nature and may not represent the final version of any product or service that PotentialU may offer in the future.
Participants acknowledge and understand that:
Technology Limitations: The AI-powered assistant "Tobi" and associated platform features are in active development and testing phases. Functionality may be limited, responses may not always be accurate or complete, and technical issues may occur during the pilot period. The system's knowledge base, while comprehensive, may not cover all operational scenarios or contain the most current information.
No Guarantee of Continued Service: Participation in this pilot does not guarantee access to future versions of the technology or continued service beyond the pilot period. PotentialU reserves the right to modify, suspend, or discontinue any aspect of the pilot program at any time without prior notice.
Evolving Features and Functionality: Features, user interfaces, and system capabilities may change throughout the pilot period as we implement improvements and address feedback. Participants should expect that their experience may vary from week to week as updates are deployed.
Limited Support and Availability: While PotentialU will provide reasonable support during the pilot, the level of technical support and system availability may not meet commercial service standards. Participants should not rely solely on the pilot technology for critical operational decisions.
Data and Results Disclaimer
Pilot Data Accuracy: All data, analytics, and insights provided through the pilot platform are for testing and evaluation purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, participants should not make critical business decisions based solely on pilot data without independent verification.
Performance Metrics: Any performance improvements, efficiency gains, or other positive outcomes observed during the pilot may not be representative of results that would be achieved in a full-scale deployment or different operational contexts.
No Warranty of Results: PotentialU makes no warranties or guarantees regarding the effectiveness, accuracy, or reliability of the pilot technology in achieving specific business outcomes or performance improvements.
Feedback and Iteration
Participants understand that this pilot is designed to gather feedback and iterate on the technology solution. As such:
Continuous Improvement: The platform will undergo continuous updates and improvements based on participant feedback and usage data. This may result in changes to functionality, user experience, or available features.
Feedback Incorporation: While PotentialU values all participant feedback, there is no guarantee that specific suggestions or requests will be implemented in future versions of the technology.
Testing Environment: The pilot environment may include experimental features or functionality that may not be included in any future commercial offering.
Participant Eligibility and Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
To participate in this pilot program, you must:
Employment Status: Be a current employee of Starbucks Hong Kong in one of the following roles: District Manager, Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or Shift Supervisor.
Authorization: Have received explicit authorization from your direct supervisor and Starbucks Hong Kong management to participate in this pilot program.
Technical Requirements: Have access to a compatible mobile device or computer capable of running the PotentialU application and receiving push notifications and email communications.
Commitment to Participation: Be willing and able to actively engage with the pilot technology for the full four-week duration, including completing assessments, using the AI assistant, and providing feedback as requested.
Language Proficiency: Have sufficient English language proficiency to understand and interact with the pilot technology and documentation.
Participation Requirements
Active Engagement: Participants are expected to actively use the pilot technology as part of their daily operational activities. This includes asking questions, exploring features, and implementing suggested improvements where appropriate.
Feedback Provision: Participants must provide honest and constructive feedback through surveys, interviews, and other feedback mechanisms as requested by the PotentialU team.
Data Accuracy: Participants must provide accurate information when completing assessments, profiles, or other data collection activities within the pilot platform.
Professional Conduct: All interactions with the pilot technology and PotentialU team members must maintain professional standards consistent with Starbucks values and policies.
Confidentiality: Participants must maintain confidentiality regarding pilot details, technology features, and any proprietary information encountered during the pilot period.
Data Collection and Processing
Types of Data We Collect
Personal Information: We collect basic personal information necessary for pilot participation, including your name, employee ID, role/position, store location, contact information (email address), and employment details relevant to your participation.
Assessment Data: We collect responses to personality assessments (including Big5 personality assessment), leadership style evaluations, skills assessments, and other psychometric or professional development tools administered through the platform.
Usage Data: We automatically collect information about how you interact with the pilot platform, including login times, session duration, features accessed, questions asked to the AI assistant, response ratings, navigation patterns, and technical performance data.
Communication Data: We collect and store all interactions with the AI assistant "Tobi," including questions asked, responses provided, feedback given, and conversation history. We also collect data from push notifications and email communications, including delivery status and engagement metrics.
Performance Data: With your consent and in collaboration with Starbucks Hong Kong, we may collect operational performance metrics related to your store or team, including customer satisfaction scores, Items per Labour Hour data, operational efficiency metrics, and other key performance indicators relevant to the pilot objectives.
Feedback Data: We collect all feedback provided through surveys, interviews, focus groups, written comments, and other feedback mechanisms, including both structured responses and open-ended comments.
Technical Data: We automatically collect technical information necessary for platform operation, including device information, browser type and version, operating system, IP address (anonymized), app version, error logs, and performance metrics.
How We Use Your Data
Pilot Operation and Support: Your data is used to provide personalized AI assistance, generate insights and recommendations, track pilot progress and engagement, provide technical support, and ensure platform functionality and security.
Research and Development: We use aggregated and anonymized data to evaluate pilot effectiveness, improve AI algorithms and responses, develop new features and functionality, conduct research on leadership development and operational efficiency, and prepare reports and case studies (with all personally identifiable information removed).
Communication and Engagement: Your contact information is used to send pilot-related communications, deliver daily motivational messages and updates, provide technical support and assistance, and conduct feedback sessions and interviews.
Compliance and Legal* We may use your data to comply with legal obligations, respond to legal requests or regulatory inquiries, protect our rights and interests, and ensure participant safety and security.
Data Processing Legal Basis
Under applicable data protection laws, including GDPR where applicable, we process your personal data based on:
Consent: Your explicit consent to participate in this pilot program and the data processing activities described herein.
Legitimate Interests: Our legitimate business interests in developing and improving our technology solutions, conducting research and development activities, and evaluating the effectiveness of our products and services.
Contractual Necessity: Processing necessary to fulfill our obligations under this pilot participation agreement and provide the services you have requested.
Data Sharing and Third Parties
Starbucks Hong Kong: We share relevant pilot data and insights with Starbucks Hong Kong as part of our collaboration agreement. This includes aggregated performance metrics, usage analytics, feedback summaries, and pilot effectiveness reports. Personal data is only shared with explicit consent and in accordance with data protection requirements.
Service Providers: We may share data with trusted third-party service providers who assist in pilot operations, including cloud hosting providers, analytics services, communication platforms, and technical support providers. All service providers are bound by strict confidentiality agreements and data protection requirements.
Legal Requirement*: We may disclose data if required by law, regulation, legal process, or governmental request, or to protect our rights, property, or safety, or that of others.
No Commercial Sale: We do not sell, rent, or otherwise commercially distribute your personal data to third parties for their marketing or commercial purposes.
Privacy Rights and Data Protection
Your Data Protection Rights
As a participant in this pilot program, you have the following rights regarding your personal data:
Right of Access You have the right to request access to the personal data we hold about you, including the right to obtain a copy of your data and information about how it is being processed.
Right to Rectification: You have the right to request correction of any inaccurate or incomplete personal data we hold about you. You can update certain information directly through the pilot platform or by contacting our support team.
Right to Erasure: You have the right to request deletion of your personal data in certain circumstances, including when the data is no longer necessary for the purposes for which it was collected, when you withdraw your consent, or when the data has been unlawfully processed.
Right to Restrict Processing: You have the right to request that we limit the processing of your personal data in certain circumstances, such as when you contest the accuracy of the data or object to processing.
Right to Data Portability: You have the right to receive your personal data in a structured, commonly used, and machine-readable format and to transmit that data to another controller where technically feasible.
Right to Object: You have the right to object to processing of your personal data based on legitimate interests, including processing for direct marketing purposes.
Right to Withdraw Consent: Where processing is based on your consent, you have the right to withdraw that consent at any time. Withdrawal of consent will not affect the lawfulness of processing based on consent before its withdrawal.
Right to Lodge a Complaint: You have the right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority if you believe your data protection rights have been violated.
Data Security and Protection Measures
Technical Safeguards: We implement industry-standard technical security measures to protect your data, including encryption of data in transit and at rest, secure authentication and access controls, regular security assessments and updates, network security monitoring, and secure data backup and recovery procedures.
Organizational Safeguards: We maintain strict organizational security measures, including employee training on data protection and privacy, access controls limiting data access to authorized personnel only, confidentiality agreements for all team members and contractors, regular privacy and security audits, and incident response procedures for data breaches.
Data Minimization: We collect and process only the minimum amount of personal data necessary to achieve the pilot objectives and provide the services described in this agreement.
Purpose Limitation: We use your personal data only for the purposes explicitly described in this agreement and will not use it for any incompatible purposes without your additional consent.
Data Retention and Deletion
Retention Period: We will retain your personal data only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this agreement. Specifically:
Pilot operational data will be retained for the duration of the pilot plus six (6) months for analysis and reporting purposes
Assessment and profile data will be retained for up to two (2) years for research and development purposes
Communication and feedback data will be retained for up to one (1) year for service improvement purposes
Technical and usage data will be retained for up to six (6) months for platform optimization
Automatic Deletion: At the end of the applicable retention periods, your personal data will be automatically deleted from our systems unless you have provided explicit consent for longer retention or unless retention is required by law.
Secure Deletion: When data is deleted, we use secure deletion methods to ensure that the data cannot be recovered or reconstructed.
International Data Transfers
Data Location: Your data may be processed and stored in various locations, including but not limited to Hong Kong, the United States, and other countries where our service providers operate.
Transfer Safeguards: When we transfer your personal data outside of Hong Kong or the European Economic Area, we ensure appropriate safeguards are in place, including standard contractual clauses approved by relevant data protection authorities, adequacy decisions by relevant authorities, or other legally recognized transfer mechanisms.
Third Country Processing: You acknowledge and consent to the processing of your personal data in countries that may have different data protection laws than Hong Kong, provided that appropriate safeguards are maintained.
Participant Obligations and Responsibilities
Use of Pilot Technology
Appropriate Use: Participants agree to use the pilot technology solely for legitimate business purposes related to their role at Starbucks Hong Kong. The technology should not be used for personal purposes, entertainment, or any activities unrelated to the pilot objectives.
Prohibited Activities: Participants must not attempt to reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble any aspect of the pilot technology; access or attempt to access data or functionality not intended for their role; share login credentials or allow unauthorized access to the platform; use the technology in any way that could damage, disable, or impair the service; or attempt to circumvent any security measures or access controls.
Accurate Information: Participants must provide accurate and truthful information when using the platform, including when completing assessments, providing feedback, or interacting with the AI assistant.
Professional Standards: All use of the pilot technology must comply with Starbucks policies, professional standards, and applicable laws and regulations.
Feedback and Cooperation
Honest Feedback: Participants agree to provide honest, constructive, and timely feedback about their experience with the pilot technology, including both positive and negative aspects.
Participation in Evaluations: Participants agree to participate in surveys, interviews, focus groups, and other evaluation activities as reasonably requested by PotentialU or Starbucks Hong Kong.
Cooperation with Support: Participants agree to cooperate with PotentialU technical support and research teams, including providing information necessary to troubleshoot issues or improve the technology.
Confidentiality Obligations
Pilot Confidentiality: Participants agree to maintain strict confidentiality regarding all aspects of the pilot program, including technology features, capabilities, limitations, performance data, and any proprietary information encountered during participation.
Non-Disclosure: Participants must not disclose, discuss, or share information about the pilot with individuals who are not authorized participants, including other Starbucks employees, media representatives, competitors, or the general public.
Social Media and Public Communications: Participants must not post about the pilot on social media, blogs, forums, or other public platforms without explicit written permission from both PotentialU and Starbucks Hong Kong.
Intellectual Property and Confidentiality
PotentialU Intellectual Property
Ownership: All technology, software, algorithms, data models, user interfaces, content, and other materials provided through the pilot platform remain the exclusive intellectual property of PotentialU. Participants acquire no ownership rights in any aspect of the technology.
License Grant: PotentialU grants participants a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable, revocable license to use the pilot technology solely for the purposes of this pilot program. This license terminates automatically upon conclusion of the pilot or termination of participation.
Restrictions: Participants may not copy, modify, distribute, sell, lease, or create derivative works based on any aspect of the pilot technology without explicit written permission from PotentialU.
Participant-Generated Content
Feedback and Suggestions: Any feedback, suggestions, ideas, or recommendations provided by participants regarding the pilot technology become the property of PotentialU and may be used for any purpose without compensation or attribution.
Data Contributions: While participants retain ownership of their personal data, they grant PotentialU a perpetual, worldwide, royalty-free license to use aggregated and anonymized data derived from their participation for research, development, and improvement purposes.
Confidential Information
Definition: Confidential information includes all non-public information about the pilot technology, its capabilities, performance data, business strategies, technical specifications, and any other proprietary information disclosed during the pilot.
Protection: Participants agree to protect confidential information with the same degree of care they would use to protect their own confidential information, but in no event less than reasonable care.
Survival: Confidentiality obligations survive termination of this agreement and continue indefinitely unless the information becomes publicly available through no breach of this agreement.
Limitation of Liability and Disclaimers
Service Disclaimers
"AS IS" BASIS: The pilot technology and all related services are provided on an "as is" and "as available" basis without warranties of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, non-infringement, or course of performance.
No Guarantee of Accuracy: PotentialU makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, or timeliness of any information, recommendations, or insights provided through the pilot technology.
Experimental Nature: Participants acknowledge that this is an experimental pilot program and that the technology may not function as expected, may contain errors or bugs, and may not be suitable for critical business decisions.
Limitation of Liability
Exclusion of Damages: To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, PotentialU shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, including but not limited to loss of profits, data, use, goodwill, or other intangible losses, resulting from participation in this pilot program.
Cap on Direct Damages: PotentialU's total liability for any claims arising from or related to this pilot program shall not exceed the amount of direct damages actually incurred, up to a maximum of HK$1,000.
Business Decision Disclaimer: Participants acknowledge that any business decisions made based on pilot technology recommendations are made at their own risk and discretion. PotentialU is not responsible for the consequences of any business decisions made by participants.
Indemnification
Participant Indemnification: Participants agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless PotentialU, its officers, directors, employees, and agents from and against any claims, damages, losses, costs, or expenses arising from their breach of this agreement, misuse of the pilot technology, or violation of any applicable laws or regulations.
Force Majeure
Unforeseeable Events: Neither party shall be liable for any failure or delay in performance under this agreement due to circumstances beyond their reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, natural disasters, war, terrorism, labor disputes, or government actions.
Termination and Withdrawal
Voluntary Withdrawal
Right to Withdraw: Participants may withdraw from the pilot program at any time without penalty by providing written notice to PotentialU and their Starbucks supervisor.
Effect of Withdrawal: Upon withdrawal, participants' access to the pilot technology will be immediately terminated, and they must cease all use of the platform and return or destroy any confidential information in their possession.
Data Handling: Upon withdrawal, participants may request deletion of their personal data, subject to any legal retention requirements or legitimate business needs for completing pilot analysis.
Involuntary Termination
Grounds for Termination: PotentialU or Starbucks Hong Kong may terminate a participant's involvement in the pilot for breach of this agreement, violation of company policies, failure to actively participate, or any conduct that could harm the pilot program or participating organizations.
Immediate Termination: In cases of serious breach or misconduct, termination may be immediate without prior notice.
Program Termination
Right to Terminate Program: PotentialU reserves the right to terminate the entire pilot program at any time for any reason, including technical difficulties, safety concerns, or business considerations.
Notice of Termination: In the event of program termination, PotentialU will provide reasonable notice to participants and Starbucks Hong Kong, except in cases where immediate termination is necessary.
Post-Termination Obligations
Survival of Terms: Certain provisions of this agreement, including confidentiality obligations, intellectual property rights, limitation of liability, and data protection requirements, survive termination of the pilot program.
Return of Materials: Upon termination, participants must immediately cease use of the pilot technology and return or destroy any materials, documentation, or confidential information related to the pilot.
Contact Information and Support
PotentialU Contact Information
Primary Contact:
- Email: bidjan@potentialu.co
- Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM EST
Support and Assistance
Technical Issues: For any technical problems with the pilot platform, including login issues, app functionality problems, or connectivity issues, contact PotentialU support immediately.
Pilot-Related Questions: For questions about pilot procedures, expectations, or general program information, contact the PotentialU pilot support team.
Employment-Related Concerns: For any concerns related to your employment or workplace issues arising from pilot participation, contact your Starbucks supervisor or HR representative.
Feedback and Complaints
Feedback Submission: Participants are encouraged to provide ongoing feedback through the designated channels within the pilot platform or by contacting the pilot support team directly.
Complaint Resolution: Any complaints or concerns about the pilot program, data handling, or participant treatment will be investigated promptly and addressed according to established procedures.
Legal Compliance and Governing Law
Applicable Laws and Regulations
Data Protection Compliance: This agreement and all data processing activities comply with applicable data protection laws, including the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance of Hong Kong, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) where applicable, and other relevant privacy and data protection regulations.
Employment Law Compliance: All pilot activities comply with Hong Kong employment laws and regulations, and participation in this pilot does not alter any existing employment relationships or obligations.
Industry Regulations: The pilot program complies with all applicable industry regulations and standards relevant to the retail and hospitality sectors.
Governing Law and Jurisdiction
Governing Law: This agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, without regard to its conflict of law principles.
Jurisdiction: Any disputes arising from or related to this agreement shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
Alternative Dispute Resolution: The parties agree to attempt to resolve any disputes through good faith negotiation before pursuing formal legal proceedings. If negotiation fails, disputes may be resolved through mediation or arbitration as mutually agreed.
Regulatory Compliance
Data Transfer Compliance: All international data transfers comply with applicable cross-border data transfer regulations and requirements.
Industry Standards: The pilot program adheres to relevant industry standards for data security, privacy protection, and technology deployment.
Audit and Compliance: PotentialU maintains records and documentation necessary to demonstrate compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Amendment and Updates
Agreement Updates: This agreement may be updated from time to time to reflect changes in law, regulation, or pilot procedures. Participants will be notified of any material changes and may be required to provide renewed consent.
Legal Requirements: If any provision of this agreement is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.
Acknowledgment and Consent
Participant Acknowledgment
By participating in this pilot program, you acknowledge that you have:
Read and Understood: Carefully read and understood all terms and conditions set forth in this Pilot Participation Agreement and Privacy Policy.
Received Information: Received adequate information about the nature, purpose, duration, and scope of the pilot program, including the experimental nature of the technology and potential limitations.
Understood Data Processing: Understood how your personal data will be collected, processed, stored, and shared during the pilot program, including your rights regarding that data.
Voluntary Participation: Confirmed that your participation is entirely voluntary and that you may withdraw at any time without penalty.
Authority to Participate: Confirmed that you have the necessary authority and authorization from Starbucks Hong Kong to participate in this pilot program.
Professional Obligations: Understood your obligations regarding confidentiality, appropriate use of technology, and professional conduct during the pilot.
Explicit Consent
By clicking "I Agree" or otherwise indicating your acceptance of this agreement, you provide your explicit, informed, and freely given consent to:
Pilot Participation: Participate in the PotentialU-Starbucks pilot program under the terms and conditions described in this agreement.
Data Processing: The collection, processing, storage, and sharing of your personal data as described in this privacy policy and for the purposes outlined herein.
Communication: Receive pilot-related communications, including daily messages, notifications, surveys, and other program-related correspondence.
Feedback Collection: Participate in feedback collection activities, including surveys, interviews, and other evaluation methods.
Technology Use: Use the pilot technology in accordance with the terms, conditions, and limitations described in this agreement.
Consent Withdrawal
Right to Withdraw: You understand that you may withdraw your consent and terminate your participation in the pilot program at any time by contacting PotentialU or your Starbucks supervisor.
Effect of Withdrawal: You understand that withdrawal of consent will result in immediate termination of your access to the pilot technology and may affect the completeness of pilot data and analysis.
Data Retention: You understand that some data may be retained after withdrawal as described in the data retention section of this agreement, subject to your data protection rights.
Record of Consent
Documentation: PotentialU will maintain records of your consent to participate in this pilot program and agreement to these terms and conditions.
Effective Date and Contact
This Pilot Participation Agreement and Privacy Policy is effective as of July 14, 2025, and governs all participation in the PotentialU-Starbucks pilot program.
For questions, concerns, or to exercise your data protection rights, please contact:
Pilot Support Team
Email: bidjan@potentialu.co
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Document Version: 1.0
Last Updated: June 17, 2025
Introduction and Pilot Overview
BY PARTICIPATING IN THIS PILOT PROGRAM, YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE READ, UNDERSTOOD, AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THIS AGREEMENT. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO THESE TERMS, DO NOT PARTICIPATE IN THE PILOT PROGRAM.
This Pilot Participation Agreement and Privacy Policy ("Agreement") governs your participation in the PotentialU Intelligent Operations Solution Hub pilot program ("Pilot") conducted in collaboration with Starbucks Hong Kong ("Starbucks HK"). This document explains the nature of the pilot, how we collect and use your data, your rights as a participant, and the legal framework governing this collaboration.
About PotentialU
PotentialU is an innovative technology company specializing in intelligent operations solutions for the retail and hospitality industry. Our mission is to empower frontline leaders with AI-driven insights and personalized guidance to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience. This pilot represents a collaborative effort to test and refine our Intelligent Operations Solution Hub specifically for Starbucks operations.
Pilot Objectives
The primary objective of this pilot is to evaluate the effectiveness of our AI-powered operations assistant, "Tobi," in supporting Starbucks leaders across various roles including District Managers, Store Managers, Assistant Store Managers, and Shift Supervisors. The pilot focuses on the challenge "Elevate & Accelerate: Transforming the Starbucks Experience" with specific emphasis on improving customer experience and optimizing Items per Labour Hour metrics.
Pilot Duration and Scope
This pilot program runs for four (4) weeks from July 14, 2025, to August 8, 2025. The pilot is limited to selected Starbucks Hong Kong locations and involves a carefully chosen group of participants representing different operational roles within the Starbucks hierarchy. The pilot is designed to test functionality, gather feedback, and measure impact in a controlled environment before potential broader deployment.
Pilot Nature and Limitations
Experimental Nature of the Pilot
IMPORTANT NOTICE: This is a pilot program designed to test and evaluate new technology solutions. As such, the services, features, and functionality provided during this pilot are experimental in nature and may not represent the final version of any product or service that PotentialU may offer in the future.
Participants acknowledge and understand that:
Technology Limitations: The AI-powered assistant "Tobi" and associated platform features are in active development and testing phases. Functionality may be limited, responses may not always be accurate or complete, and technical issues may occur during the pilot period. The system's knowledge base, while comprehensive, may not cover all operational scenarios or contain the most current information.
No Guarantee of Continued Service: Participation in this pilot does not guarantee access to future versions of the technology or continued service beyond the pilot period. PotentialU reserves the right to modify, suspend, or discontinue any aspect of the pilot program at any time without prior notice.
Evolving Features and Functionality: Features, user interfaces, and system capabilities may change throughout the pilot period as we implement improvements and address feedback. Participants should expect that their experience may vary from week to week as updates are deployed.
Limited Support and Availability: While PotentialU will provide reasonable support during the pilot, the level of technical support and system availability may not meet commercial service standards. Participants should not rely solely on the pilot technology for critical operational decisions.
Data and Results Disclaimer
Pilot Data Accuracy: All data, analytics, and insights provided through the pilot platform are for testing and evaluation purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, participants should not make critical business decisions based solely on pilot data without independent verification.
Performance Metrics: Any performance improvements, efficiency gains, or other positive outcomes observed during the pilot may not be representative of results that would be achieved in a full-scale deployment or different operational contexts.
No Warranty of Results: PotentialU makes no warranties or guarantees regarding the effectiveness, accuracy, or reliability of the pilot technology in achieving specific business outcomes or performance improvements.
Feedback and Iteration
Participants understand that this pilot is designed to gather feedback and iterate on the technology solution. As such:
Continuous Improvement: The platform will undergo continuous updates and improvements based on participant feedback and usage data. This may result in changes to functionality, user experience, or available features.
Feedback Incorporation: While PotentialU values all participant feedback, there is no guarantee that specific suggestions or requests will be implemented in future versions of the technology.
Testing Environment: The pilot environment may include experimental features or functionality that may not be included in any future commercial offering.
Participant Eligibility and Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
To participate in this pilot program, you must:
Employment Status: Be a current employee of Starbucks Hong Kong in one of the following roles: District Manager, Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or Shift Supervisor.
Authorization: Have received explicit authorization from your direct supervisor and Starbucks Hong Kong management to participate in this pilot program.
Technical Requirements: Have access to a compatible mobile device or computer capable of running the PotentialU application and receiving push notifications and email communications.
Commitment to Participation: Be willing and able to actively engage with the pilot technology for the full four-week duration, including completing assessments, using the AI assistant, and providing feedback as requested.
Language Proficiency: Have sufficient English language proficiency to understand and interact with the pilot technology and documentation.
Participation Requirements
Active Engagement: Participants are expected to actively use the pilot technology as part of their daily operational activities. This includes asking questions, exploring features, and implementing suggested improvements where appropriate.
Feedback Provision: Participants must provide honest and constructive feedback through surveys, interviews, and other feedback mechanisms as requested by the PotentialU team.
Data Accuracy: Participants must provide accurate information when completing assessments, profiles, or other data collection activities within the pilot platform.
Professional Conduct: All interactions with the pilot technology and PotentialU team members must maintain professional standards consistent with Starbucks values and policies.
Confidentiality: Participants must maintain confidentiality regarding pilot details, technology features, and any proprietary information encountered during the pilot period.
Data Collection and Processing
Types of Data We Collect
Personal Information: We collect basic personal information necessary for pilot participation, including your name, employee ID, role/position, store location, contact information (email address), and employment details relevant to your participation.
Assessment Data: We collect responses to personality assessments (including Big5 personality assessment), leadership style evaluations, skills assessments, and other psychometric or professional development tools administered through the platform.
Usage Data: We automatically collect information about how you interact with the pilot platform, including login times, session duration, features accessed, questions asked to the AI assistant, response ratings, navigation patterns, and technical performance data.
Communication Data: We collect and store all interactions with the AI assistant "Tobi," including questions asked, responses provided, feedback given, and conversation history. We also collect data from push notifications and email communications, including delivery status and engagement metrics.
Performance Data: With your consent and in collaboration with Starbucks Hong Kong, we may collect operational performance metrics related to your store or team, including customer satisfaction scores, Items per Labour Hour data, operational efficiency metrics, and other key performance indicators relevant to the pilot objectives.
Feedback Data: We collect all feedback provided through surveys, interviews, focus groups, written comments, and other feedback mechanisms, including both structured responses and open-ended comments.
Technical Data: We automatically collect technical information necessary for platform operation, including device information, browser type and version, operating system, IP address (anonymized), app version, error logs, and performance metrics.
How We Use Your Data
Pilot Operation and Support: Your data is used to provide personalized AI assistance, generate insights and recommendations, track pilot progress and engagement, provide technical support, and ensure platform functionality and security.
Research and Development: We use aggregated and anonymized data to evaluate pilot effectiveness, improve AI algorithms and responses, develop new features and functionality, conduct research on leadership development and operational efficiency, and prepare reports and case studies (with all personally identifiable information removed).
Communication and Engagement: Your contact information is used to send pilot-related communications, deliver daily motivational messages and updates, provide technical support and assistance, and conduct feedback sessions and interviews.
Compliance and Legal* We may use your data to comply with legal obligations, respond to legal requests or regulatory inquiries, protect our rights and interests, and ensure participant safety and security.
Data Processing Legal Basis
Under applicable data protection laws, including GDPR where applicable, we process your personal data based on:
Consent: Your explicit consent to participate in this pilot program and the data processing activities described herein.
Legitimate Interests: Our legitimate business interests in developing and improving our technology solutions, conducting research and development activities, and evaluating the effectiveness of our products and services.
Contractual Necessity: Processing necessary to fulfill our obligations under this pilot participation agreement and provide the services you have requested.
Data Sharing and Third Parties
Starbucks Hong Kong: We share relevant pilot data and insights with Starbucks Hong Kong as part of our collaboration agreement. This includes aggregated performance metrics, usage analytics, feedback summaries, and pilot effectiveness reports. Personal data is only shared with explicit consent and in accordance with data protection requirements.
Service Providers: We may share data with trusted third-party service providers who assist in pilot operations, including cloud hosting providers, analytics services, communication platforms, and technical support providers. All service providers are bound by strict confidentiality agreements and data protection requirements.
Legal Requirement*: We may disclose data if required by law, regulation, legal process, or governmental request, or to protect our rights, property, or safety, or that of others.
No Commercial Sale: We do not sell, rent, or otherwise commercially distribute your personal data to third parties for their marketing or commercial purposes.
Privacy Rights and Data Protection
Your Data Protection Rights
As a participant in this pilot program, you have the following rights regarding your personal data:
Right of Access You have the right to request access to the personal data we hold about you, including the right to obtain a copy of your data and information about how it is being processed.
Right to Rectification: You have the right to request correction of any inaccurate or incomplete personal data we hold about you. You can update certain information directly through the pilot platform or by contacting our support team.
Right to Erasure: You have the right to request deletion of your personal data in certain circumstances, including when the data is no longer necessary for the purposes for which it was collected, when you withdraw your consent, or when the data has been unlawfully processed.
Right to Restrict Processing: You have the right to request that we limit the processing of your personal data in certain circumstances, such as when you contest the accuracy of the data or object to processing.
Right to Data Portability: You have the right to receive your personal data in a structured, commonly used, and machine-readable format and to transmit that data to another controller where technically feasible.
Right to Object: You have the right to object to processing of your personal data based on legitimate interests, including processing for direct marketing purposes.
Right to Withdraw Consent: Where processing is based on your consent, you have the right to withdraw that consent at any time. Withdrawal of consent will not affect the lawfulness of processing based on consent before its withdrawal.
Right to Lodge a Complaint: You have the right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority if you believe your data protection rights have been violated.
Data Security and Protection Measures
Technical Safeguards: We implement industry-standard technical security measures to protect your data, including encryption of data in transit and at rest, secure authentication and access controls, regular security assessments and updates, network security monitoring, and secure data backup and recovery procedures.
Organizational Safeguards: We maintain strict organizational security measures, including employee training on data protection and privacy, access controls limiting data access to authorized personnel only, confidentiality agreements for all team members and contractors, regular privacy and security audits, and incident response procedures for data breaches.
Data Minimization: We collect and process only the minimum amount of personal data necessary to achieve the pilot objectives and provide the services described in this agreement.
Purpose Limitation: We use your personal data only for the purposes explicitly described in this agreement and will not use it for any incompatible purposes without your additional consent.
Data Retention and Deletion
Retention Period: We will retain your personal data only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this agreement. Specifically:
Pilot operational data will be retained for the duration of the pilot plus six (6) months for analysis and reporting purposes
Assessment and profile data will be retained for up to two (2) years for research and development purposes
Communication and feedback data will be retained for up to one (1) year for service improvement purposes
Technical and usage data will be retained for up to six (6) months for platform optimization
Automatic Deletion: At the end of the applicable retention periods, your personal data will be automatically deleted from our systems unless you have provided explicit consent for longer retention or unless retention is required by law.
Secure Deletion: When data is deleted, we use secure deletion methods to ensure that the data cannot be recovered or reconstructed.
International Data Transfers
Data Location: Your data may be processed and stored in various locations, including but not limited to Hong Kong, the United States, and other countries where our service providers operate.
Transfer Safeguards: When we transfer your personal data outside of Hong Kong or the European Economic Area, we ensure appropriate safeguards are in place, including standard contractual clauses approved by relevant data protection authorities, adequacy decisions by relevant authorities, or other legally recognized transfer mechanisms.
Third Country Processing: You acknowledge and consent to the processing of your personal data in countries that may have different data protection laws than Hong Kong, provided that appropriate safeguards are maintained.
Participant Obligations and Responsibilities
Use of Pilot Technology
Appropriate Use: Participants agree to use the pilot technology solely for legitimate business purposes related to their role at Starbucks Hong Kong. The technology should not be used for personal purposes, entertainment, or any activities unrelated to the pilot objectives.
Prohibited Activities: Participants must not attempt to reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble any aspect of the pilot technology; access or attempt to access data or functionality not intended for their role; share login credentials or allow unauthorized access to the platform; use the technology in any way that could damage, disable, or impair the service; or attempt to circumvent any security measures or access controls.
Accurate Information: Participants must provide accurate and truthful information when using the platform, including when completing assessments, providing feedback, or interacting with the AI assistant.
Professional Standards: All use of the pilot technology must comply with Starbucks policies, professional standards, and applicable laws and regulations.
Feedback and Cooperation
Honest Feedback: Participants agree to provide honest, constructive, and timely feedback about their experience with the pilot technology, including both positive and negative aspects.
Participation in Evaluations: Participants agree to participate in surveys, interviews, focus groups, and other evaluation activities as reasonably requested by PotentialU or Starbucks Hong Kong.
Cooperation with Support: Participants agree to cooperate with PotentialU technical support and research teams, including providing information necessary to troubleshoot issues or improve the technology.
Confidentiality Obligations
Pilot Confidentiality: Participants agree to maintain strict confidentiality regarding all aspects of the pilot program, including technology features, capabilities, limitations, performance data, and any proprietary information encountered during participation.
Non-Disclosure: Participants must not disclose, discuss, or share information about the pilot with individuals who are not authorized participants, including other Starbucks employees, media representatives, competitors, or the general public.
Social Media and Public Communications: Participants must not post about the pilot on social media, blogs, forums, or other public platforms without explicit written permission from both PotentialU and Starbucks Hong Kong.
Intellectual Property and Confidentiality
PotentialU Intellectual Property
Ownership: All technology, software, algorithms, data models, user interfaces, content, and other materials provided through the pilot platform remain the exclusive intellectual property of PotentialU. Participants acquire no ownership rights in any aspect of the technology.
License Grant: PotentialU grants participants a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable, revocable license to use the pilot technology solely for the purposes of this pilot program. This license terminates automatically upon conclusion of the pilot or termination of participation.
Restrictions: Participants may not copy, modify, distribute, sell, lease, or create derivative works based on any aspect of the pilot technology without explicit written permission from PotentialU.
Participant-Generated Content
Feedback and Suggestions: Any feedback, suggestions, ideas, or recommendations provided by participants regarding the pilot technology become the property of PotentialU and may be used for any purpose without compensation or attribution.
Data Contributions: While participants retain ownership of their personal data, they grant PotentialU a perpetual, worldwide, royalty-free license to use aggregated and anonymized data derived from their participation for research, development, and improvement purposes.
Confidential Information
Definition: Confidential information includes all non-public information about the pilot technology, its capabilities, performance data, business strategies, technical specifications, and any other proprietary information disclosed during the pilot.
Protection: Participants agree to protect confidential information with the same degree of care they would use to protect their own confidential information, but in no event less than reasonable care.
Survival: Confidentiality obligations survive termination of this agreement and continue indefinitely unless the information becomes publicly available through no breach of this agreement.
Limitation of Liability and Disclaimers
Service Disclaimers
"AS IS" BASIS: The pilot technology and all related services are provided on an "as is" and "as available" basis without warranties of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, non-infringement, or course of performance.
No Guarantee of Accuracy: PotentialU makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, or timeliness of any information, recommendations, or insights provided through the pilot technology.
Experimental Nature: Participants acknowledge that this is an experimental pilot program and that the technology may not function as expected, may contain errors or bugs, and may not be suitable for critical business decisions.
Limitation of Liability
Exclusion of Damages: To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, PotentialU shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, including but not limited to loss of profits, data, use, goodwill, or other intangible losses, resulting from participation in this pilot program.
Cap on Direct Damages: PotentialU's total liability for any claims arising from or related to this pilot program shall not exceed the amount of direct damages actually incurred, up to a maximum of HK$1,000.
Business Decision Disclaimer: Participants acknowledge that any business decisions made based on pilot technology recommendations are made at their own risk and discretion. PotentialU is not responsible for the consequences of any business decisions made by participants.
Indemnification
Participant Indemnification: Participants agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless PotentialU, its officers, directors, employees, and agents from and against any claims, damages, losses, costs, or expenses arising from their breach of this agreement, misuse of the pilot technology, or violation of any applicable laws or regulations.
Force Majeure
Unforeseeable Events: Neither party shall be liable for any failure or delay in performance under this agreement due to circumstances beyond their reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, natural disasters, war, terrorism, labor disputes, or government actions.
Termination and Withdrawal
Voluntary Withdrawal
Right to Withdraw: Participants may withdraw from the pilot program at any time without penalty by providing written notice to PotentialU and their Starbucks supervisor.
Effect of Withdrawal: Upon withdrawal, participants' access to the pilot technology will be immediately terminated, and they must cease all use of the platform and return or destroy any confidential information in their possession.
Data Handling: Upon withdrawal, participants may request deletion of their personal data, subject to any legal retention requirements or legitimate business needs for completing pilot analysis.
Involuntary Termination
Grounds for Termination: PotentialU or Starbucks Hong Kong may terminate a participant's involvement in the pilot for breach of this agreement, violation of company policies, failure to actively participate, or any conduct that could harm the pilot program or participating organizations.
Immediate Termination: In cases of serious breach or misconduct, termination may be immediate without prior notice.
Program Termination
Right to Terminate Program: PotentialU reserves the right to terminate the entire pilot program at any time for any reason, including technical difficulties, safety concerns, or business considerations.
Notice of Termination: In the event of program termination, PotentialU will provide reasonable notice to participants and Starbucks Hong Kong, except in cases where immediate termination is necessary.
Post-Termination Obligations
Survival of Terms: Certain provisions of this agreement, including confidentiality obligations, intellectual property rights, limitation of liability, and data protection requirements, survive termination of the pilot program.
Return of Materials: Upon termination, participants must immediately cease use of the pilot technology and return or destroy any materials, documentation, or confidential information related to the pilot.
Contact Information and Support
PotentialU Contact Information
Primary Contact:
- Email: bidjan@potentialu.co
- Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM EST
Support and Assistance
Technical Issues: For any technical problems with the pilot platform, including login issues, app functionality problems, or connectivity issues, contact PotentialU support immediately.
Pilot-Related Questions: For questions about pilot procedures, expectations, or general program information, contact the PotentialU pilot support team.
Employment-Related Concerns: For any concerns related to your employment or workplace issues arising from pilot participation, contact your Starbucks supervisor or HR representative.
Feedback and Complaints
Feedback Submission: Participants are encouraged to provide ongoing feedback through the designated channels within the pilot platform or by contacting the pilot support team directly.
Complaint Resolution: Any complaints or concerns about the pilot program, data handling, or participant treatment will be investigated promptly and addressed according to established procedures.
Legal Compliance and Governing Law
Applicable Laws and Regulations
Data Protection Compliance: This agreement and all data processing activities comply with applicable data protection laws, including the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance of Hong Kong, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) where applicable, and other relevant privacy and data protection regulations.
Employment Law Compliance: All pilot activities comply with Hong Kong employment laws and regulations, and participation in this pilot does not alter any existing employment relationships or obligations.
Industry Regulations: The pilot program complies with all applicable industry regulations and standards relevant to the retail and hospitality sectors.
Governing Law and Jurisdiction
Governing Law: This agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, without regard to its conflict of law principles.
Jurisdiction: Any disputes arising from or related to this agreement shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
Alternative Dispute Resolution: The parties agree to attempt to resolve any disputes through good faith negotiation before pursuing formal legal proceedings. If negotiation fails, disputes may be resolved through mediation or arbitration as mutually agreed.
Regulatory Compliance
Data Transfer Compliance: All international data transfers comply with applicable cross-border data transfer regulations and requirements.
Industry Standards: The pilot program adheres to relevant industry standards for data security, privacy protection, and technology deployment.
Audit and Compliance: PotentialU maintains records and documentation necessary to demonstrate compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Amendment and Updates
Agreement Updates: This agreement may be updated from time to time to reflect changes in law, regulation, or pilot procedures. Participants will be notified of any material changes and may be required to provide renewed consent.
Legal Requirements: If any provision of this agreement is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.
Acknowledgment and Consent
Participant Acknowledgment
By participating in this pilot program, you acknowledge that you have:
Read and Understood: Carefully read and understood all terms and conditions set forth in this Pilot Participation Agreement and Privacy Policy.
Received Information: Received adequate information about the nature, purpose, duration, and scope of the pilot program, including the experimental nature of the technology and potential limitations.
Understood Data Processing: Understood how your personal data will be collected, processed, stored, and shared during the pilot program, including your rights regarding that data.
Voluntary Participation: Confirmed that your participation is entirely voluntary and that you may withdraw at any time without penalty.
Authority to Participate: Confirmed that you have the necessary authority and authorization from Starbucks Hong Kong to participate in this pilot program.
Professional Obligations: Understood your obligations regarding confidentiality, appropriate use of technology, and professional conduct during the pilot.
Explicit Consent
By clicking "I Agree" or otherwise indicating your acceptance of this agreement, you provide your explicit, informed, and freely given consent to:
Pilot Participation: Participate in the PotentialU-Starbucks pilot program under the terms and conditions described in this agreement.
Data Processing: The collection, processing, storage, and sharing of your personal data as described in this privacy policy and for the purposes outlined herein.
Communication: Receive pilot-related communications, including daily messages, notifications, surveys, and other program-related correspondence.
Feedback Collection: Participate in feedback collection activities, including surveys, interviews, and other evaluation methods.
Technology Use: Use the pilot technology in accordance with the terms, conditions, and limitations described in this agreement.
Consent Withdrawal
Right to Withdraw: You understand that you may withdraw your consent and terminate your participation in the pilot program at any time by contacting PotentialU or your Starbucks supervisor.
Effect of Withdrawal: You understand that withdrawal of consent will result in immediate termination of your access to the pilot technology and may affect the completeness of pilot data and analysis.
Data Retention: You understand that some data may be retained after withdrawal as described in the data retention section of this agreement, subject to your data protection rights.
Record of Consent
Documentation: PotentialU will maintain records of your consent to participate in this pilot program and agreement to these terms and conditions.
Effective Date and Contact
This Pilot Participation Agreement and Privacy Policy is effective as of July 14, 2025, and governs all participation in the PotentialU-Starbucks pilot program.
For questions, concerns, or to exercise your data protection rights, please contact:
Pilot Support Team
Email: bidjan@potentialu.co
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Document Version: 1.0
Last Updated: June 17, 2025
© 2025 Product Pulse Consulting Design
© 2025 Product Pulse Consulting Design
© 2025 Product Pulse Consulting Design