A comparative analysis of the “smart cities” of the world has revealed characteristic features by which they can be divided into four categories. This should change the planning rules, the study authors are sure.
Experts from the University of Pennsylvania typed the so-called "smart" or "smart cities", which are now actively being built around the world. They are distinguished from conventional ones by new information and communication technologies that solve the problems of transport, housing and energy in planning and management. However, not all of them are the same, and each of the four types requires a different approach, writes Science Daily.
Cities of the first type rely on service. They are distinguished by their use of mobile networks and digital health. They already have a good communications infrastructure and prefer to invest in carefully selected programs. Examples of such cities: Tokyo and Copenhagen.
The second type includes cities created according to the transport model. They are usually densely populated, and face problems with transporting goods and passengers within the city. They need initiatives to control emissions - clean public transport, carsharing or robot taxi, and information and communications technology. Singapore and Dubai are examples of such cities.
Cities that fall into the third category of broad spectrum models emphasize public services - water, sanitation, garbage collection, and they need the appropriate technology. Examples: Barcelona, Vancouver, Beijing.
The fourth category of cities in the business ecosystem are those that use information technology to support economic activity. They value the opportunity to teach digital skills and attract qualified employees and private companies. These cities include Amsterdam, Edinburgh and Cape Town.
In Russia, the development of smart cities will be dealt with by the international service provider Orange Business Services. This agreement was reached with SAP, the world leader in the corporate applications market, at the Eastern Economic Forum.
Georgy Golovanov
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