What document viewing data can and cannot tell you

Viewing information from a document link can help confirm delivery and identify sections that may need clarification. It cannot reveal a person’s interest, understanding, approval, or purchase intent merely because a screen opened. Keep observation separate from interpretation.

Record observable facts first

Write only what the system recorded: whether a link opened at a certain time, which page or section appeared, and whether there was another access. Keep alternative explanations such as shared devices, idle tabs, or automated previews in view.

Do not infer intent or emotion

Long viewing does not prove high interest, and short viewing does not prove rejection. One person may open material for a group, or may already know the content. Viewing information cannot replace a direct answer.

Make follow-up questions more specific

Instead of asking only “Did you see it?”, ask whether a condition in the comparison table needs clarification. Do not present observations as surveillance. Center the conversation on information the reader needs.

Interpretation checklist

• Are recorded facts distinct from team inference?
• Was the collection and use of data explained appropriately?
• Is no outcome or intent inferred from one duration metric?
• Is the reader’s direct answer checked before action?
• Are access controls and retention periods defined?

Feat AI Tether and FeatPaper help material describe viewing observations, but these should never be presented as a guarantee of personal intent.