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There are significant initiatives that are being taken to develop "Smart Cities". However, there still seems to be some discussions that are solely on what makes a smart city. So, let's talk about it.
Smart City involves the usage of information and communication technology (ICT) to bring about enhanced applications and increased operational efficiency. It also involves increased transparency and communcation between the government and the citizens.
In other words, it integrates technology with the key systems that are essential for a city's operation. This includes Governance, Mobility, Smart Grids/Energy, Education, Smart Buildings/ Urban Planning, Economy, and Living.
Evaluating a city's performance in its levels of smartness are carried out over a few criteria. These include:
technology centred infrastructure
Sustainability and Environmental initiatives
City Planning
Responsible utility of available resources withtin the city
Efficient transportation
What makes a Smart City successful?
Even though there are different segments that govern the operations and efficiency of smart cities, at the core of everything, the aspects that ensure the efficacy and success fo any initiative is the interaction between 3 key factors:
Government and policies
Technology and its integration
Responsible citizens.
Each entity has its own share of contributions. Government bodies are in charge of creating anf implementing policies that ultimately contribute towards the development of a city as a smart one.
Technology is a key factor in increasing the city's smartness. A network of sensors, control and analytical algorithms are essential to ensure a smooth working based in greater efficiency and communications. The physical devices communiate with great efficiency without excessive human interferance - these are primarily extensive applications of Internet of Things (IoT).
Now, let's talk about the most important factor in my opinion - us, the Citizens! No matter how advanced the technology is or how many policies are in place by the government, if the citizens do not wish to follow the protocols and bring the initiatives into effect, then the entire smart city development slows down.
The success of any smart city is, most importantly, dependent on the citizens. Awareness programs and overall education are important factors in supporting and encouraging citizens towards more responsible and smart activities.
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