Smart Cities - Who is the “smart one?” City or people?

Speaking of smart cities, as often as not we conjure up images of futuristic landscapes, adorned with cutting-edge technology seamlessly integrated into the urban fabric. The question arises: who is truly the "smart one," the city itself or its inhabitants??

John Harlow, a smart city research specialist at The Emerson College Engagement Lab, states that “Smartness in cities comes from people understanding what's important to them and what problems they are experiencing.” While the city's systems may be equipped with sensors, data analytics, and connectivity to optimize various functions, the ultimate goal is to empower its residents. Therefore, the true smartness of a city should lie in its ability to respond intelligently to the needs and preferences of its people. While infrastructure plays a crucial role in fostering economic growth, an approach driven primarily by supply has frequently resulted in unintended adverse effects on both people and the environment. Instances include elevated levels of traffic congestion and air pollution stemming from an exclusive focus on car-centric transportation infrastructure development. This is attributed to the fact that, despite being a legal requirement, public consultations on infrastructure projects often fall short, inadequately capturing the genuine needs and concerns of the community.

The good news is that smart cities can be game-changers. The core concept of a smart city goes beyond technological infrastructure; it encapsulates a vision of urban living that prioritizes efficiency, sustainability, and the well-being of residents. By incorporating human-centric variables into the analysis of "what people want," it ensures that city planning aligns with the needs of the community. In this symbiotic relationship, the city acts as a facilitator, utilizing technology to create efficient, sustainable, and livable environments, while the people contribute to the collective intelligence by actively participating in decision-making processes, utilizing available resources, and shaping the city's future.

In essence, the "smartness" of a city is a collaborative endeavor between the urban infrastructure and its residents, working together to build a more connected, responsive, and inclusive urban environment. Where there is a pain point, there is a way. With innovation, every city can be a smart city.